For a long time, Kenyan politics has been dominated by men, with women often relegated to supporting roles. However, a new generation of women, dubbed the "lionesses," is emerging and taking on powerful men in elections. These women have faced numerous challenges, including insults, humiliation, and physical assaults, but they are determined to make their mark in politics. They are focusing on policies and building their own networks at the community level.
Despite the challenges, several women have successfully navigated the male-dominated field and emerged victorious in elections. Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda, Kajiado nominated Senator Peris Tobiko, and Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo are among the women who have beaten the odds and taken on powerful men in politics. They have demonstrated that women can be tough and resilient in the face of adversity and are now preparing for the 2027 general election.
The journey to success for these women has not been easy. Many have had to overcome stereotypes and biases, and some have had to rely on affirmative action to get a foot in the door. Lesuuda, for example, was nominated to the Senate in 2013 before taking on a constituency seat. Tobiko lost her first attempt to win Kajiado East in 2007 but persisted and eventually won the seat in 2013.
Millie Odhiambo, also known as the "bad girl," has been a political survivor for many years. Her career began outside Parliament in civil society, where she worked on child rights. She was nominated to Parliament in 2008 and has since won several elections, including the Suba North seat in 2022. Her durability has been attributed to her public profile and visibility in Parliament.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire's route to the governor's office was marked by rejection and rebound. She had served as MP for four terms before becoming governor in 2022. In 2017, she lost the Jubilee nomination for governor but rebounded and won the seat in 2022. Mbarire has described women's campaigns as particularly difficult, citing emotional, psychological, and physical abuse.
Other women who have made a mark in Kenyan politics include Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, and Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti. These women have demonstrated that they can take on powerful men and win elections. Wanga, for example, won the Homa Bay governor's seat in 2022, defeating Evans Kidero, a well-known politician.
The emergence of these women in politics is a positive development for Kenya's democracy. They are bringing a new perspective to politics and challenging the status quo. According to political analyst Martin Andati, women like Millie Odhiambo have built a public profile and visibility that has helped them to succeed in politics. As the 2027 general election approaches, it will be interesting to see how these women continue to shape the country's politics.
Key points
- Women in Kenyan politics are defying stereotypes and taking on powerful men in elections.
- The journey to success for these women has not been easy, with many facing challenges such as insults, humiliation, and physical assaults.
- Despite the challenges, several women have successfully navigated the male-dominated field and emerged victorious in elections.
