Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani has urged religious leaders who are afraid of women leadership not to fear her.
Achani said she will continue respecting them and will not go against the teachings of holy books as she delivers her political duties.
“I want to assure my religious leaders that I won't let you down. You won't be undermined,” she said.
Achani said being a woman governor is not a ticket to disrespecting the male gender and becoming reckless.
She spoke following accusations by opponents that she is a dictator and would abuse her powers.
Denying all the allegations, she said opponents use propaganda to sabotage women's leadership.
She said she will lead moderately concerning the law and the teachings of all religious books.
The governor thanked the clergy for supporting women's leadership despite the many challenges and propaganda about women in power.
Kwale is a conservative region, where women’s leadership has not been fully accepted for years.
The local community believes women can't lead because of old traditions and cultures that discourage their leadership.
Achani is the first female governor in Kwale.
She emerged victorious after trouncing five men in the hotly contested governor race.
She bagged 59, 674 votes against her close competitor ODM's Hamadi Boga 53, 972 followed by Chai Lung'anzi 47, 301, Chirau Mwakwere 9, 639, Sammy Ruwa 5, 562 and Gereza Dena 2,310.
Achani cautioned other women leaders against looking for political powers only to undermine the male gender and for self-interest.
The governor, however, urged the religious leaders to correct her when wrong and help govern the county in a right and fair manner.
“No human is perfect, I am young and I still need your guidance,” she said.
Achani spoke on Thursday during her inauguration at Kwale Stadium in Matuga constituency.
She hailed her husband Ali Juma Kanga for being a good spouse and supporting her course.
Achani said the husband is a role model and other men should emulate him.
She said he has been persevering, and understanding and always provided endless support in times of hardship.
“You have been my shoulder to lean on during the campaigns, my closest advisor and a husband who always inspires me to soldier on,” she said.
“You are a father figure and a husband to be emulated, may God bless you with many more years.”
Achani pledged to work hard for Kwale residents and follow former Governor Salim Mvurya's footsteps in bringing development.
She also decried the increasing intimidation by people who have not yet achieved her leadership.
The governor said her supporters from Ukunda and Diani are living in fear because of threats.
She urged the county security team to take up the matter and arrest the perpetrators for spreading fears.
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
