The Women Mediators Network of Kenya has vowed to keep a watchful eye on the August 9 elections to highlight violations against women political aspirants.
Through a press statement read by Jennifer Riria, Chairperson of the African Leaders Women Network, they pledged to ensure that the rule of law is upheld in regards to the rights of women aspirants.
“We shall be seeking official accreditation to observe Elections and continue tracking all institutions for their gender inclusiveness and adherence to and respect for the rule of law,” they said.
The mediators had previously condemned parties that had not yet complied with the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission directive to uphold the two-thirds gender rule in their respective party lists.
The women also drew attention to the safety of women aspirants across the country.
Riria said that it was unfortunate that some women aspirants were still being targeted by their competitors running for the same seats.
“Some women aspirants continue to experience violence and threats to their lives and those of their families on account of winning Political Party nominations,” she said.
She said that the safety and security of women aspirants, voters, and all Kenyans were non-negotiable, calling on the security apparatus including the Inspector General of Police to move with speed to arrest and charge perpetrators so that this barbarism is nipped at the bud.
Riria added that it was the least that could be done to communicate that such impunity is totally unacceptable and no perpetrator should get away unpunished according to the law
“We urge all women who may experience violence to speak and reach out for help and not get discouraged to the point of despair.”
“We wish to tell all duty bearers that this time around, women are watching and will not keep quiet in the face of violations,” she said.
The women expressed hope that the country would have a peaceful transition after the elections.
“Important as they are, elections are mere events and do not constitute the whole sum of our national character. Kenya is way bigger than one event even if that event is a General Election,” she concluded.
