NAIROBI – The multisectoral Working Group on the two-thirds gender principle is pressing the Kenyan Parliament to implement the two-thirds gender rule urgently, emphasizing the need to enhance women’s participation in governance and decision-making roles. This move, they argue, is crucial for developing policies that consider women’s specific needs and rights.
According to Kenya News Agency, Franklin Mukhwanja, a member of the Working Group, expressed confidence that the current Parliament, before its term concludes in 2027, will resolve the longstanding deadlock on the gender rule. The push for implementation has gained momentum following President William Ruto’s memorandum to Parliament, advocating for accelerated legislation to ensure no gender remains underrepresented.
“This is a matter of human rights, not just women’s rights,” Mr. Mukhwanja stated during a public forum in Nakuru’s Rift Valley Regional Commissioner’s plenary hall. He pointed out that the Supreme Court had already declared Parliament’s failure to uphold the constitutional mandate on gender representation. The Working Group’s objective is to draft a legislative proposal for the 13th Parliament to enforce the gender principle effectively.
The Working Group, comprised of Chairperson Veronica Nduva, Co-chairperson Daisy Amdany, and other members including Harriet Chiggai, Faith Nziku Kasiva, Anne Nderitu, and several more, is determined to influence key parliamentary institutions and political parties to support this cause.
Mr. Mukhwanja highlighted the critical role of political parties in achieving gender balance through their nomination processes. The group plans to actively engage with these parties to ensure at least one-third representation of women within their ranks.
The Working Group’s efforts align with President Ruto’s commitment to prioritizing women’s empowerment and leadership in his administration. They urge stakeholders to provide recommendations that uphold the constitution and foster gender equality and empowerment.
Article 27(8) of the Kenyan Constitution mandates that no more than two-thirds of members in elective or appointive bodies should be of the same gender. Kenya currently lags in gender representation in East Africa, with women constituting only 9.8% and 20.7% of the 10th and 11th Parliaments, respectively.
The Working Group’s initiative is a significant step towards addressing gender disparities in Kenya’s political landscape and fostering a more inclusive and representative governance structure.