07/11/2025
# atehbaila!!!
It is really disheartening to see African women continually bullied in their respective leadership positions in an arena that has always been male dominated.
It is even more heartbreaking that the system encourages it and has manipulated the masses into accepting it as normal.
Instead of applauding the few African women who are daring to stand up to this patriarchy, female politicians are labelled and disrespected everyday in the eyes of the world.
Even more discouraging is the fact that it is our fellow women who are used to fight this brutal battle against female leaders.
Senator Nastash of Nigeria is crying everyday from the endless disrespect she is receiving even though according to her, there is a Presidential order for restraint to be exercised, this roaring lioness still continues to receive insults, ridicule and abuse from people who are meant to level the playing field.
It is a pity that Africa has to be constantly reminded that African women are the bread basket of the continent and deserve to be treated fairly and not humiliated.
We deserve to be in leadership positions not only because we are the many but because it is our empathy, compassion and wisdom which informs the change in policies for the better interest of the people we govern.
Senator Nastha my dear sister, your cries are heard loud and clear and we have your back even though all of us female leaders are going through the same pain in silence.
Shame on those who are quiet for their own selfish interests playing the divide and rule game.
They can only speak when their thrones feel threatened. Senator Nastaha the world is watching. Never allow yourself to be intimidated.
Continue to speak when it matters, I went through it and I know how it feels.
I encourage you never to use the sympathy card - unfortunately the system is built so that โthose that care do not matter and those that matter do not careโ.
Instead my dear sister, embrace female solidarity and expect to be alone for the longest nights .
Never expect that those you fought for or fought a cause with will come to your rescue, Instead they will either ignore your pain, or add daggers to your back.
Listen to everyone, stay calm and watch your back. Most importantly have faith and always remember that God is with you and He canโt be deceived.
In this period ,friends, relatives comrades and even some close family members will all distance themselves from you.
Accept this and understand that it is human nature and prepare yourself mentally for the longest nights.
It is a fact that he who feels it knows it. You have earned my respect dear sister Natasha and you have my full solidarity.
Take the challenge and move on. What doesnโt kill you, only makes you stronger.
We will overcome!
Rohey Malick Lowe
Mayor of Banjul,
President of the network of the local elected women of Africa ( REFELA)
Second vice president Global Parliament of Mayors.
