Women leaders in Western have said they will support Azimio La Umoja Movement and follow the political directions given by President Uhuru Kenyatta, ahead of the August election.
The women, under the Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation, said the outfit has always worked with the government.
Deputy chairperson Betty Siyengo said they will work with the government because the state is mandated with development.
The declaration comes days after President Kenyatta and Raila Odinga announced the start of coalition talks with other like-minded parties, to build a political machine to take on Deputy President William Ruto.
The MYWO leadership was in Kakamega on Monday.
They held their inaugural regional gatherings to celebrate its 70th anniversary at Bukhungu Stadium.
The event was graced by Public Service CS Margaret Kobia.
The organisation will be traversing eight regions over the next two months to celebrate and honour immense contributions by women in Kenya’s political, social and economic development.
Gender CAS Beatrice Elachi said the organisation has been working with the government and should support the handshake.
“We will not be intimidated and we shall stand with Azimio to ensure Raila becomes the fifth president,” she said.
Former Gender and Equality Commission chairperson Wilfred Lichuma said Azimio is the route.
“Women should not cede their seats, they will be given preferential treatment in Azimio,” she said.
Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya’s wife Priscilla said women must be where the government is.
Priscilla said Azimio will form the next government.
The CS said the government is keen on women's empowerment and MYWO has been a real pillar in the grassroots developments.
Kobia said the government will continue to support women empowerment programmes, towards the achievement of Vision 2030.
She said MYWO has been a partner in various government undertakings and several women have led and made tremendous contributions towards nation-building, over the last five years.
The CS said the government has been awarding women trailblazers for the service offered to Kenyans.
Sports CS Amina Mohammed said the Jubilee administration has developed policies to support women empowerment in the development drive
Senator Zipporah Kitony said women will continue to play their role in leadership, responsibly.
She urged leaders to campaign peacefully.
MYWO national chairperson Rahab Muiu said nominations in the national assembly, senate and county assemblies should be given to their officials because they do a lot voluntarily.
“The economic revolution being promised should start with women and support their economic activities,” Muiu said.
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
