A section of gender activists from Embakasi sub-county have called on relevant authorities to take action against Komarock Ward MCA Chris Mtuishi for assaulting nominated MCA Joy Muthoni
Speaking at the Umama grounds in Komarock, the exact location where Joy Muthoni was allegedly assaulted, the activists have called on Nairobi county assembly and senate to intervene in the matter and prosecute the case to the very end.
According to photos shared on her Facebook page, the nominated leader was injured on her legs, together with leaders who had accompanied her at the venue.
Human right activist Esther Mwikali has accused the Komarock ward rep of disregarding leadership and integrity act and termed the matter as a case of gender based violence.
“This is not political witch-hunt, that’s why we don’t have politicians here. Our question is, “If a leader can do this to a fellow leader, what about the mwananchi?”‘ Mwikali posed.
A section of the clergy led by Pastor Protus Kanake have further warned leaders against continued violence against women leaders adding that the act by the MCA was unwarranted and uncalled for.
”The nominated MCA does her work in reverence and fear of the Lord and we condemn the actions by the MCA. Hon Joy has brought development in the area and we shall not allow violence against women leaders,” Protus lamented.
In a statement, the principal secretary for gender and affirmative action Anne Wang’ombe, has condemned the assault and vowed to institute measures against the ward rep.
“This includes strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing security for women leaders, and strengthen our coordination role, working with different agencies to protect and ensure that victims of Gender-Based Violence have access to justice.” Wangombe noted.
”According to data from various human rights organizations, in 2022 alone, 22% of women candidates in the General Election reported incidents of violence, including harassment, physical assault, threats, and cyberbullying. We take note that, such violence is driven by deep-rooted gender bias, a culture of impunity, and the exclusion of women from male-dominated political spaces. It is particularly disturbing that women leaders face this hostility not just from political opponents, but sometimes from their own parties and supporters.” the statement read.
Joy Muthoni is said to have been assaulted on the 9th of this month at the grounds when she was spearheading a project by the Nairobi County water and sewerage company.