Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has raised alarm over what she describes as a coordinated wave of political attacks targeting women governors in Kenya. Speaking during a church service at The Victory Church Kyamuthinza in Kalama Sub-County, Wavinya called on religious leaders and the public to support female county leaders facing relentless smear campaigns and impeachment threats.
Wavinya cited Nakuru’s Susan Kihika, Homa Bay’s Gladys Wanga, and herself as victims of political hostility. “There is a demon in this country targeting women governors. Many are now endangered,” she said. Her statement follows the controversial impeachment of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza in December 2022, after a prolonged feud with MCAs.
In Machakos, a fresh crisis has erupted as 33 MCAs have initiated impeachment proceedings against County Assembly Speaker Anne Kiusya. A motion has already been filed, signaling deepening tensions between the executive and the legislature. Wavinya urged dialogue, revealing that she had attempted to mediate but was ignored. “I reached out to the Speaker, but she declined my calls. She should engage the MCAs to resolve this,” she advised.
Wavinya’s concerns highlight a troubling trend where women in top county offices face heightened resistance. Critics argue that female leaders often endure disproportionate scrutiny and aggression compared to their male counterparts. The impeachment of Mwangaza and the ongoing battles involving Kihika, Wanga, and now Kiusya suggest systemic challenges for women in leadership.
The governor appealed to the church to stand with women leaders, emphasizing the need for spiritual and moral support. “We need prayers to overcome these attacks,” she said. Her plea underscores the volatile nature of Kenyan politics, where gender biases and power struggles frequently collide.
As the standoff in Machakos unfolds, the fate of Speaker Kiusya remains uncertain. Will dialogue prevail, or will another woman leader fall victim to political machinations? Wavinya’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the uphill battle women face in Kenya’s governance landscape.
