In a contentious exchange that has sparked considerable discussion on social media, former President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Nelson Havi, delivered a stern criticism of nominated senator Gloria Orwoba regarding her claim that patriarchy significantly influenced the impeachment of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
The intense dialogue commenced when Orwoba, a prominent advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, expressed on social media that the governor’s ousting was more a result of deep-seated patriarchal norms than the allegations made against her.
In a post on X dated August 21, 2024, Orwoba urged more women to engage in politics, asserting that this is the sole means to combat patriarchy in Kenya.
“I keep shouting and I continue to shout about this: WOMEN IN KENYA NEED TO JOIN POLITICS! This is a numbers game, as long as we have minimum elected women, the patriarchy will never end and women leaders will always have it rough and unfair! This is the cross we bear,” Orwoba wrote.
Orwoba remarked that Kawira’s impeachment served as a clear illustration of the influence of patriarchy in her decline.
“Patriarchy is alive and well in Kenya. Kawira’s impeachment is proof that strong women leaders are still not welcome in politics,” she remarked.
Havi, recognized for his forthright observations on legal and political issues, delivered a pointed rebuttal without reservation.
He promptly challenged Orwoba’s assertions with a sharp retort, sarcastically questioning Orwoba’s credibility to address the subject.
“Who elected you to speak for us?” Havi retorted – a pointed reference to Orwoba’s status as a nominated, rather than elected, senator.
The recent exchange has generated a divided response, with advocates for both individuals expressing their views.
Some individuals support Havi’s position, contending that the impeachment of Governor Mwangaza was justified due to valid concerns regarding her behavior and management style.
Conversely, others have resonated with Senator Orwoba’s perspective, indicating that gender discrimination may have influenced the rapid and decisive measures taken against the governor.
Governor Kawira Mwangaza, who faced impeachment amid a backdrop of political maneuvering and public examination, has consistently asserted her innocence and is contesting the ruling in court.
Her advocates claim that she was unjustly targeted due to her gender and her unconventional leadership methods.
The Senate confirmed her impeachment after a vote by the Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) in Meru County, a decision that has elicited both commendation and dissent.
Orwoba’s assertions regarding the impact of patriarchy on the Senate’s impeachment proceedings have ignited a wider discussion about the obstacles faced by women in leadership roles in Kenya.
