Gender and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Margaret Kobia has attracted criticism from a section of Kenyans for meddling in Kirinyaga County governance affairs.
The CS — in a protest statement posted to her Twitter and Facebook pages on Wednesday, June 10 — termed Waiguru’s Tuesday, June 9, impeachment by Kirinyaga MCAs as an act meant to cut down “strong women” to size.
“It is unfortunate that Governor Waiguru’s term is being cut short by an impeachment. This is an indication that some of us do not value strong women leadership,” said Kobia in her statement.
The minister’s remarks triggered backlash from a section of Kenyans online, including the Law Society of Kenya President Nelson Havi, who faulted Kobia’s school of thought, saying elected leaders are evaluated on meritocracy and performance.
Other female leaders who have thrown their support behind Waiguru are Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu and Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga.
“The travesty visited upon Kirinyaga Governor Waiguru is one of the many crooked ways that PhD machinations are using to pull her down and we strongly condemn it. My sister Anne, take heart, hold your head high and continue serving the people of Kirinyaga. You will be vindicated,” said Ngilu.
Nakuru Senator, Susan Kihika, who until May 12, 2020 was the Senate Majority Whip, faulted CS Kobia for offering selective protection to women leaders. Kihika said Kobia failed to stand by her and former National Assembly Deputy Majority Whip Cecily Mbarire when they were “undeservedly” axed from their posts. Nominated MP Mbarire was removed from the National Assembly Deputy Majority Whip post on June 2.
“Wondering if a similar letter from @CSMargaretKobia4 @CecilyMbarire and I got lost in the mail? Could the Ministry of Gender not be aware that we are women too? Cess [Mbarire], perhaps it’s time for you and I to send Kobia our naked pics then she might stand up for us against the bully too [adds thinking face emoji],” said Kihika on her Twitter page on Wednesday, June 10.
