Auditions for Ms President Reality Show begin

Auditions for the Ms President reality show were held in Eldoret on Wednesday. [Christopher Kipsang, Standard]

Auditions for Season 2 of the Ms President reality show have begun. 

Nine candidates from Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, have so far qualified for the next round of auditions. 

The programme is geared towards supporting women to take part in different spectrums of life by championing matters of politics and development in the community.

Media Focus on Africa Communication Officer Marie Claire Munyana said the competition attracted over 700 applicants nationally, but only 320 were shortlisted for auditions. 

“The 320 candidates will be tackling current affairs questions from judges over two days of auditions in each county. From these auditions, 50 participants will be admitted to the academy which begins in May this year. The show will progress through an elimination process until the last 5 candidates are selected for the grand finale,” Ms Munyana told The Standard.

She said the programme was using the auditions “to nurture and help women have voice in leadership.”

“For years, women have been perceived as the weak link in leadership. In many communities, women are not given any space at a decision-making table and this is the chance and opportunity.”

Among the main criteria for one to qualify for the auditions include age, with participants aged between 20 and 60, a college diploma, and being bold enough to stand for leadership.

“We are looking for people who can learn faster and be able to articulate and discuss issues objectively,” Ms Munyana said.

After the conclusion of Season One, Ms Munyana said the finalists are currently playing “huge roles” in society.

“In the forthcoming 2022 General Election, we will see women eyeing political seats and taking leadership positions in our communities,” said Ms Munyana, adding that Maryann Omondi, the sitting Ms President, is eyeing the Karachuonyo parliamentary seat.

Lilian Kasese, who made it through the auditions, said that apart from eyeing the Ms President position, the experience has so far given her an opportunity to meet other like-minded women in the community.

“The experience was nice. The panel has been lively and the questions were impressive. I have learned and met Kenyan ladies with whom we share the same aspirations,” said Ms Kasese.