Many refer to her as the Iron Lady of Kenyan politics. Martha Karua has a proven track record of professionalism and outstanding performance as an advocate of the High Court and as a renowned Kenya politician.
She has been instrumental in shaping the politics of Kenya.
As an advocate of the High Court, she stood for the rights of the weak and those who were oppressed, defended them in courts and ensured that justice prevailed.
Given her track record over the years, I have all the reasons to believe that the former Justice Minister can make a serious running mate to any presidential contender.
She fits the bill.
Once a minister in retired President Kibaki’s administration, Karua has cut herself a national outlook. She needs no introduction across the country.
She is among the high-profile politicians from Central Kenya who still enjoys national clout, a key requirement for an ideal running mate.
She brings with her experience accumulated over years and strong networks developed when serving in various capacities. These are key ingredients for any candidate choosing his running mate.
She also understands better the socio-economic challenges facing women not only in Kenya but across the continent.
Having originated from the Mt Kenya region, she understands the needs of the people in the region: agriculture, economic development, youth and women empowerment and overall regional growth.
Away from her home area, Karua was seen as a vibrant pillar for change back in 2002 when she supported the former NARC coalition headed by Kibaki that edged out the Kanu regime.
She is a strong supporter of democracy and human rights at any level.
In 2017 when she vied for gubernatorial seat in Kirinyaga and lost to the incumbent Anne Waiguru, she tirelessly petitioned the case up to the Supreme Court level, for her quest to be granted justice.
She has always been a face of women and youth empowerment.
She has been a role model for many upcoming youth and women leaders, being among the pioneer women to join politics in Kenya
Analyst spoke to the Star
