The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has today held a meeting with the Multi Sectoral Working Group (MSWG) and the chairperson for the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, Hon. George Murugara to push for the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule in Kenya.
Speaking during the meeting, KEWOPA's chairperson Hon. Leah Sankaire (Kajiado) expressed dismay over the initial exclusion of the two-thirds gender rule from the NADCO report and the failure to provide the Multi-Sectoral Working Group with a timeline to incorporate their suggestions promptly, instead of addressing the issue as an "addendum."
"As Women in Kenya, we feel you made it deliberate and technical to dilute the weight of the two-thirds gender rule and that it doesn't go through," said Hon. Sankaire.
The association's vice chairperson, Hon. Beatrice Elachi (Dagoretti) questioned the disregard of the presidential memorandum on the same.
On her part, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris underscored JLAC's obligation, urging compliance to ensure gender equity in legislative representation.
"We aren't asking for things that aren't within our rights. Just comply with the constitution because you know what to do," remarked Hon. Passaris.
Also adding her voice, Hon. Milly Mabona (Suba North) emphasized the need for proper coordination as Kenya Women Parliamentarians.
In response to queries, Hon. Murugara defended the decision to relegate the gender rule to an addendum to the NADCO report.
"An addendum is as good as the report itself", said Hon. Murugara.
He noted that the two-third gender rule was removed from the NADCO report and assigned the Multi-Sectoral Working Group to deal with and submit its findings.
JLAC's chairperson also took women lawmakers through the unpacking of the NADCO report and the status of the two-thirds gender rule stating that his Committee is in receipt of the report and shall soon be reviewing it.
He also distanced himself from the notion that his Committee had already agreed on a formula for its implementation.
"We haven't agreed on the formula yet. We shall only adopt 1 out of the 3 submitted proposals," stated Hon. Murugara.
Acknowledging the critical role of political goodwill, the Multi-Sectoral Working Group underscored the importance of Parliamentary compliance, warning of potential political ramifications.
"For as long as parliament isn't compliant, there are serious political consequences," said Ms. Daisy Amdany, a representative of the Multi-Sectoral Working Group.
In her closing remarks, Hon. Sankaire rallied women legislators to heed the call and support its implementation, stressing the potential to foster gender inclusivity and the creation of opportunities for women in the country.
