The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has come to the defense of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, dismissing criticism over her extended maternity leave in the United States as political bullying.
Addressing the media ,KEWOPA leaders condemned calls for Kihika’s deportation from the US, following a petition by Nakuru resident Evans Kimori to US President Donald Trump. Kimori accused the governor of overstaying in the US, alleging that her absence had created a leadership vacuum in Nakuru County.
Speaking at the briefing, Kisii Woman Representative Doris Donya rebuked the petition as baseless and unnecessary.
“They know very well that she has given birth. Now they are embarrassing themselves by walking around naked and asking for an impossible thing. The US embassy is even wondering what you are asking. What do you want the US embassy to help you with? Please, Kenyans, sometimes we go overboard,” Donya remarked.
KEWOPA emphasized Kihika’s constitutional right to maternity leave, asserting that the backlash she faced was rooted in gender bias. The association issued three demands: an end to gender-based attacks on Kihika and other female leaders, recognition of women’s rights to maternity leave without political intimidation, and a fair political environment for women in leadership.
Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda assured Kihika of KEWOPA’s solidarity, praising her resilience.
“We stand with you. We celebrate your resilience, and we assure you that your health and well-being matter. We look forward to your full recovery and eventual return to the great people of Nakuru County,” Mutinda stated.
The controversy surrounding Kihika’s stay in the US has been brewing for months, with increasing calls for her resignation. On 18th February 2025, Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja threatened to table a vote of no confidence against the governor if she failed to return to office.
Kimori’s petition claimed that Kihika had exceeded the legally stipulated maternity leave of 90 days, remaining absent for nearly five months. However, KEWOPA maintains that Kihika’s leave is within legal provisions and has called for an end to what they term unjustified political attacks.