Kenya has witnessed an unsettling wave of cyberbullying and sexual attacks targeting Defence Cabinet Secretary nominee Soipan Tuya. The backlash emerged following her appointment to the Defence docket on July 23, 2024, a transition from her previous role as Environment Cabinet Secretary in President William Ruto’s first cabinet. Tuya’s new role has been met with a disturbing torrent of negative commentary on social media, exacerbating concerns over gender-based violence and harassment.
Soipan Tuya, a distinguished leader with a law degree from the University of Nairobi, has previously held the position of Woman Representative for Narok County for two terms. Her appointment to the Defence Cabinet Secretary position marked a significant step in her career. However, rather than being celebrated for her achievements and qualifications, Tuya has become the target of derogatory remarks and personal attacks. This unfortunate situation underscores a troubling pattern that emerges whenever a woman assumes a prominent position of power.
Women leaders from the Maa community, encompassing Laikipia, Samburu, and Kajiado Counties, have publicly condemned the cyberbullying and sexual attacks directed towards Tuya. They voiced their concerns about the prevalent gender-based violence, which surfaces every time a woman is appointed to a significant role. The legislators have called for action against those responsible for spreading edited images and malicious content. They emphasized that such behavior reflects a broader issue of gender discrimination and violence that persists in Kenyan society.
“We ask the concerned authorities to address gender-based violence, as every time a woman is appointed, there are derogatory remarks. Women who have been appointed are all qualified,” stated the women legislators. Their statement highlights the frustration and disappointment felt by many who see these attacks as a reflection of deeply ingrained biases against women in leadership.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo also added her voice to the condemnation, emphasizing the need for equal standards regardless of gender when it comes to leadership appointments. Odhiambo’s comments resonate with the growing demand for gender parity and respect in political discourse. “I want to encourage the Gen Zs. I support them but let’s not get trapped in sexual innuendos,” Odhiambo said, advocating for a focus on merit and qualifications rather than personal attacks.
The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges women face in the political arena. Despite her impressive credentials and previous experience, Tuya’s achievements have been overshadowed by baseless attacks. The backlash against her underscores a broader issue that needs to be addressed with urgency—combatting gender-based violence and ensuring that women are judged by their capabilities rather than subjected to harmful stereotypes and discrimination.
Soipan Tuya’s case is not isolated but part of a larger pattern where women in positions of authority face undue scrutiny and hostility. The call to action by the women legislators and MPs like Millie Odhiambo is crucial in addressing this issue and fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment for all leaders. As Kenya continues to evolve, it is imperative that the discourse around leadership remains grounded in respect and fairness, rather than prejudice and harassment.
In conclusion, the condemnation of the cyberbullying and sexual attacks against Defence CS nominee Soipan Tuya reflects a critical stance against gender-based violence and a call for equitable treatment of all leaders, irrespective of gender. It is a reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance and advocacy to ensure that women can ascend to and thrive in leadership roles without facing undue prejudice and personal attacks.
