Stereotypes, violence keep women out of politics in Zimbabwe

In this picture taken on July 15, 2018, a woman dances during an opposition election rally in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Gender-based prejudices are still rife in this Southern African nation where women have traditionally been seen as cheerleaders for male politicians [Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi/AP Photo]

Harare, Zimbabwe – On March 16, Thokozile Dube was attacked by a gang of assailants who stormed her yard at twilight in Mawabeni community in Matabeleland South province, 480km (300 miles) away from the capital, Harare.

It was 10 days to the Zimbabwean parliamentary and local government by-elections in which she was representing the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) in a race for a council seat, the 61-year-old farmer said.