Eldoret, Kenya – Residents of Uasin Gishu County have expressed their support for the implementation of the Not More Than Two-Thirds Gender Principle in leadership positions across Kenya. This consensus was reached during a public participation forum held in Eldoret by the Multi-Sectoral Working Group (MSWG) on the realization of this gender principle.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Team Leader for MSWG in Uasin Gishu, the forum aimed to collect diverse opinions from the public, various groups, and stakeholders, including local leaders. She emphasized the significance of gender inclusivity in all forms of appointments, nominations, and elections across different sectors, highlighting that such inclusivity has been underrepresented since the Constitution of Kenya 2010 was promulgated.

Ruto clarified that gender issues concern both men and women and are crucial for future generations. She informed the public that stakeholder engagement in Nairobi had taken place, involving groups like the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which suggested necessary constitutional amendments.

The key message of the forum was that all political parties should adhere to the rule of not more than two-thirds representation of one gender in elective, appointive, and nominative positions. Ruto commended the public, civil society organizations, and Members of the County Assembly for their supportive views. She assured that the collected opinions would be compiled into a report for Parliament, hoping that it would aid in passing the bill related to this principle.

Ruto noted that the biggest obstacle to implementing the principle has been the lack of enactment in Parliament and the absence of political goodwill from political parties. She expressed hope that the new government’s political parties and parliamentarians would expedite the issue.

Highlighting the critical role of the Office of Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) in this process, Ruto stressed the need for proper regulations to ensure inclusive party nomination lists. She also pointed out the challenges women face in being nominated for parties and participating in general elections.

Nandi MCA Milcah Chumba Jerobon, representing local leaders at the forum, observed that societal misconceptions and beliefs often undervalue women’s roles, impacting the implementation of the gender principle. She shared her observations about the decline in the number of women elected in Nandi County from 2013 to 2022 and addressed the challenges faced by women during party nominations.

Jerobon proposed that IEBC should manage party nominations for female aspirants to ensure fairness. She highlighted cultural challenges and societal stereotypes as major hurdles in achieving the two-thirds gender principle.

Wilson Maiyo, speaking on behalf of retirees, suggested that the government should enforce regulations to ensure gender balance in all positions, from the presidency downwards. Participants at the forum emphasized the need for widespread public sensitization about the critical role of female leaders in society, aiming to dismantle gender stereotypes and promote the dignity and capabilities of women in leadership and beyond.