Staff Reporter

The African National Congress Women’s League (ANCWL) is actively campaigning for a female President, with leaders stating the time has come for women to take the helm of both the party and the country.

The renewed call was made at a memorial lecture in Akasia, Pretoria, held yesterday to honor the late ANC stalwart, Gertrude Shope, on what would have been her 100th birthday.

Boitumelo Moiloa, a member of the ANCWL’s National Executive Committee, said the league’s search for a female leader is not confined to its own ranks but will include women from all sectors of South African society.

Adding to the call for greater female leadership, ANC Deputy Secretary-General Nomvula Mokonyane urged women to be appointed as mayors of metropolitan municipalities, not just as speakers.

Veteran ANC leader Dr. Naledi Pandor, delivering a tribute at the lecture, praised Gertrude Shope as a fearless leader who dedicated her life to the struggle for women’s equality and South Africa’s freedom.