Kirinyaga: Women aspiring for elective positions in the Mt Kenya region have called for a political environment that gives them equal opportunities to compete, warning that violence, costly party processes, and intimidation could undermine efforts to increase women’s representation in leadership.
According to Kenya News Agency, the women emphasized that political participation should not only involve encouraging women to seek office but also ensuring they have a fair opportunity to compete, campaign, and engage voters without fear. The Social Justice League Vice Chairperson, Judith Juma, expressed concern over the increasing use of goons to cause violence during political meetings. She noted that such practices threaten peaceful participation and could discourage women from entering elective politics.
Speaking in Kirinyaga County during a training session for young women aspirants under the Young Women in Politics 50/50 Campaign, Juma highlighted that the program had brought together women from Nyeri, Nakuru, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, and Embu to equip them with knowledge and skills to participate effectively in the 2027 elections. Juma called on everyone to respect the electoral process and allow both voters and candidates to participate in a peaceful environment. She stressed the need for political parties to move beyond statements and create practical opportunities for female candidates through transparent nominations, equal access to party platforms, and affordable nomination processes.
Juma also urged the Government to strengthen mechanisms for reporting and responding to cases of political violence, harassment, and intimidation targeting women candidates. She emphasized that women themselves have a role in creating a healthier political culture by rejecting violence and supporting candidates who engage voters on issues affecting their communities.
Emily Mwaniki, an aspirant for the Wamumu Ward MCA seat, highlighted the high cost of electoral processes as a significant barrier preventing capable women from seeking elective positions. She appealed to political parties to review nomination charges and make their processes more accessible. Mwaniki condemned the use of goons and intimidation during political campaigns, asserting that voters should have the opportunity to hear different candidates and make independent decisions.
Asunta Kiobe, an MCA aspirant for Njukini Ward, challenged women seeking leadership to reject political violence and refuse to participate in acts of intimidation. She called for accessible systems where women can report cases of intimidation and receive timely support and protection. Kiobe encouraged women aspirants to build cross-party networks and support one another, stating that collective action would strengthen their ability to participate in political decision-making.
Ms. Wangu Muthoni echoed the concerns raised by Mwaniki and Kiobe, urging young women not to be intimidated by the prospect of competing against male candidates. Muthoni encouraged aspiring female leaders to remain focused on issues affecting residents, including access to services, economic opportunities, and community development, rather than allowing political hostility to define their campaigns.
