Women leaders warn Cabinet over gender rule

By Kepher Otieno

Battle looms over the proposed implementation of the gender rule in hiring of public officers and representation of women in Parliament and County Assembly.

Women leaders have warned the Cabinet against amending the clause in the new Constitution.

Led by the Prime Minister’s wife, Ida Odinga, the women declared that affirmative action enforced by the new Constitution must remain as it is.

"Women have fought hard for gender equality which was brought about by new laws and that is why we voted overwhelming for it," said Ida.

She said women’s achievements and struggle for liberation will not be wished away.

"Our roles have been overlooked for decades yet we are the pillars of the society. Time to shed off negative perception about us is now," she said. Ida rooted for respect among women irrespective of their education saying they were equally important just as men.

"There is no negotiation about this product of the Constitution. We will not tolerate any plan to reduce our gains," Ida asserted.

Tough duel

Assistant ministers Elizabeth Ongoro (Metropolitan), Beatrice Kones (Home Affairs) and nominated MPs Rachael Shebesh and Millie Odhiambo backed her.

Lands Minister James Orengo vowed to defend women’s rights in the Cabinet and re-assured that all was well. "We will make sure that in the spirit of the new Constitution, your rights are not trampled on," said Orengo.

Ongoro noted women will battle with men should they scuttle their rights embodied in the new laws.

"We are briefed the Cabinet will sit today to resolve the issues. I want to tell them to be prepared for the ramifications if they abuse our rights," Ongoro said.

Shebesh and Sotik MP Joyce Laboso said women rights must be jealously shielded. Laboso asked men to brace for a tough duel with them comes 2012.

The women leaders spoke during the burial of nominated MP Millie Odhiambo’s mother, Damaris Odhiambo in Rusinga Island, Mbita District at the weekend.