Women leaders in the country have appealed to Azimio la Umoja presidential flagbearer, Raila Odinga, to appoint Martha Karua as his running mate.
The leaders, led by Nominated Senator Beth Mugo, former Nominated Senator Zipporah Kittony and Maendeleo ya Wanawake Organisation chairperson Rahab Muiu said Ms Karua has what it takes to serve as deputy president.
They attributed this to her past track record as a Member of Parliament for Gichugu Constituency, Water and Public Works and Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister under the late President Mwai Kibaki, Advocate of the High Court, and for her role in advocating for women’s rights.
The women were speaking in Kiambu County where they were hosted by Mrs Margaret Magugu, the widow to former Githunguri MP the late Arthur Magugu.
READ MORE
Mudavadi leads Raila's AUC campaign at Great Lakes Region forum
AU, UN agencies call for building resilient industries to advance Africa's development
The leaders said Ms Karua and Mr Odinga are the best fit to lead Kenya since their strengths complement each other and Kenyans will be ‘much safer’ in their hands.
“The trend in the entire world is to recognise the important role women play in the prosperity of the world and we believe it is time for Kenya to recognise that more than 50 per cent of the population requires one of their own in the top government structure of our country,” said Ms Mugo.
The women said Ms Karua is not a stranger in the fight for democracy and the rule of law in the country.
“She played a key role in the struggle for the second liberation which led to Kenya’s pluralistic politics by repealing the famous Chapter 2A,” said Ms Mugo.
“In fact, it was during her term as Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs that Kenya got a new 2010 Constitution,” she added.
The women said Ms Karua fits the position due to her rich experience in politics and governance, which they said Kenya requires to improve the economy for the benefit of ordinary citizens.
Ms Kitonny said it is time for women in Kenya to rise to leadership positions in the country just like neighbouring countries in Africa.
“It’s our time now, it’s ripe for the woman of Kenya to ascend to the top as second in command. Around us, countries like Tanzania and Ethiopia have a woman President and Kenya deserves this position now,” said Ms Kittony.
