THE ATTACK ON THE PERSON OF THE AG V MABHIZA IS UNFORTUNATE

BY DR MASIMBA MAVAZA

The frenzy on social media attacking the Attorney General, Madam Virginia Mabhiza, can be attributed to various factors, including Sexism and misogyny.

The male individuals in the forefront of these shameful attacks hold biases against women in positions of power, leading them to scrutinize and criticize female officials more harshly.

This shows Double standards by these poor souls masquerading as human rights activists and democrats, yet they are male chauvinists.

Women in politics often face different expectations and standards than their male counterparts, which can result in unfair criticism.

Male chauvinists are individuals who hold beliefs and attitudes that:

– Prioritize men’s interests: They often believe that men are superior to women and should hold more power and authority.

They perpetuate sexism.

Male chauvinists may discriminate against women, limit their opportunities, or belittle their achievements.

They hide behind tradition as they adhere to traditional gender roles.

They believe that men and women should conform to traditional roles, with men dominating public life and women confined to domestic roles.

Male chauvinism can manifest in various ways, including Patronising behaviour, which is evident in the Xs being sent around.

Talking down to women or treating them as if they are inferior, criticising every good deed done by the Attorney General.

The attacks on the AG and the Objectification of her gender, reducing her to her physical appearance or objectifying her, is unfortunate.

Male chauvinism can have negative consequences, such as limiting women’s opportunities and terrifying other women and discouraging them from ascending.

Perpetuating sexism and discrimination can prevent women from reaching their full potential.

As Zimbabweans, we must be better than that. The aim of these social media attacks is to Damage relationships.

Male chauvinism can lead to conflict and mistrust in personal and professional relationships.

It’s essential to recognize and challenge male chauvinism to promote gender equality and create a more inclusive and respectful environment.

The phenomenon is often referred to as gender-based criticism or sexist criticism.

It can have a chilling effect on women’s participation in politics and public life.

To address this issue, it’s essential to promote media literacy.

Encourage critical thinking and media literacy to recognize and challenge biased reporting.

We must support women in politics: Advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equality and support women in leadership positions.

Zimbabwe must foster a culture of respect.

We must encourage respectful dialogue and critique, focusing on policies and actions rather than personal attacks.

For the avoidance of doubt, there was nothing wrong with the AG being part of the entourage to the Vatican.

Presidents visit the Vatican for various reasons, including Diplomatic Relations and to strengthen ties with the Holy See and discuss global issues like peace, human rights, and economic development.

These discussions need the advice from the AG.

The need for Interfaith Dialogue is to foster understanding and cooperation between different faith communities and promote spiritual values.

This might need legal adjustments.

Governments build International Cooperation.

To address global challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change, the Vatican’s moral authority and expertise are needed.

There is a great Cultural Exchange program to showcase the rich cultural heritage of their country and appreciate the Vatican’s artistic and historical treasures.

There are a lot of Symbolic Significances.

To demonstrate respect for the Catholic Church and its role in promoting peace, justice, and human dignity worldwide.

It is ironic to have people abuse the AG while she is in the seat of holiness.

In case our good-for-nothing critics did not know, some notable examples of presidential visits to the Vatican accompanied by female officers include President Woodrow Wilson’s visit in 1919.

The first US president to meet with a pope at the Vatican, Wilson discussed post-World War I peace efforts with Pope Benedict XV.

He was accompanied by a few women officers. President Ronald Reagan’s visits in 1982 and 1987: Reagan met with Pope John Paul II to discuss Cold War tensions and promote peace and democracy.

President Barack Obama’s visit in 2009: Obama met with Pope Benedict XVI to discuss global issues like poverty, inequality, and climate change.

These visits highlight the significance of the Vatican as a global moral authority and a hub for international diplomacy and cooperation.