Woman power: can we take it?

There is a wind of change on the African political landscape. Oh, what a time it is to be alive. The narrative of African women rising to power seemed to be an impossible feat under the status quo of governance within the continent.

But, here we are, women rising to power, be it through marriage, political astuteness or just being in the right place, at the right time. More and more women are coming into their own as women of substance in the political arena.

We have to ask ourselves, is Africa really ready to receive this change in the gender dynamics of African politics?

A big part of me says Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma would make an ideal president, but unfortunately her baggage is too heavy for some of us to accept.

Too many possible scandals, too many associations with the wrong family and smoky characters – a seedy ex-husband and a motive we do not quite understand. Too many “what ifs” are at play.

We then look at Dr Mamphela Ramphele of Agang fame. Another woman with an impressive resume.

Her star failed to shine not because she joined forces with the DA, only to cull the alliance as soon as we were coming to accept it, but because she was not punted and supported by men of influence in society and politics.

Dr Makhosi Khoza was applauded for standing steadfast against the ANC in parliament, even being booted out of her political home.

We all supported her and she has now started her own political party, but how many people will actually vote for her?

From what I have heard, some people who supported her as a member of parliament are now asking about her fitness to hold office, her political background. All of a sudden we can now question her CV? Spare me!

Advocate Thuli Madonsela dodged a bullet when she was told she would be a great president and would be guaranteed support should she wish to stand.

Being an astute individual, she obviosuly knew just how fickle the South African voter can be and so decided against entering politics ... and who can blame her?