Reflections on Gender, Politics, and Power Dynamics – Onsy Nkrumah

In 1989, former U.S. President Gerald Ford offered a prediction that has proven both insightful and prophetic in its relevance to the complex dynamics of women breaking through the entrenched gender barriers in politics. He speculated about the possible challenges a woman might face in becoming President of the United States for the first time. Decades later, this prediction appears to have materialized more readily in Africa than in America, highlighting an interesting twist in the narrative of female political empowerment.

Consider the case of Joyce Banda, the former Vice President of Malawi. Banda ascended to the presidency in 2012 after the unexpected death of President Bingu wa Mutharika. As Malawi’s first female president, she managed to hold on to power for over two years — a significant achievement in a nation where the political landscape is often turbulent and male-dominated. Banda’s rise to power was remarkable not only because she was a woman, but also because she took the reins during a period of uncertainty, demonstrating resilience and leadership.

A similar situation unfolded in Tanzania when President John Magufuli died in 2021. His Vice President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, automatically assumed the presidency, becoming the country’s first female leader. Unlike many political leaders who face rigorous elections to ascend to the highest office, Hassan stepped into the role without an electoral mandate but has remained in power for three years and counting. Her leadership marks another historic moment for women in African politics, demonstrating that gender barriers can be overcome in unforeseen ways.

This pattern in Africa brings an interesting perspective to the political landscape in the United States. President Joe Biden’s choice of Kamala Harris as his Vice President suggested a readiness for a potential transition to female leadership. However, unlike her African counterparts, Harris would have to win a national election to break the gender ceiling and become the first female president of the United States. With the upcoming election cycle, she faces a challenging path — one that requires navigating both political opposition and public opinion.

Ironically, while Harris may be poised to make history, she faces unique challenges that do not stem solely from her gender. Her outspoken support for LGBTQ+ rights has drawn both praise and criticism. Some African leaders, for instance, might view her as a less favorable candidate not because of her gender, but due to her stance on social issues that conflict with conservative values prevalent in many African countries. This divergence has led some to view former President Donald Trump — despite his controversial record on race — as a more predictable alternative. The saying “better the devil you know than the devil you don’t” seems to capture this sentiment well.

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During her visit to Africa last year, Harris emphasized the importance of embracing LGBTQ+ rights, even hinting at potential sanctions for countries that fail to support these rights. This has sparked debate among many African nations, who view such statements as interference in their sovereign decisions. The tension underscores the complexities of global politics where cultural values, national interests, and human rights often collide.

As we look ahead, the path to female leadership remains fraught with unpredictability and challenges. While Africa has shown that women can rise to the highest offices, often through unexpected circumstances, the United States continues to grapple with its own journey toward this historic milestone. Will Kamala Harris succeed where others have not? Or will history continue to unfold in ways that surprise us?

In the end, the unpredictable nature of politics reminds us that change is rarely straightforward. Only time will tell how these dynamics play out on the global stage, but one thing is certain: the world of politics remains as complex and unpredictable as ever.

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Written by Onzy Nkrumah