This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
Corruption has plagued our nation since independence, with the highest echelons of public office often being the most affected. The recent attempted impeachment of Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, who was later acquitted by the Senate for lack of evidence, has shed light on the gender bias perpetuated by society.
While women are often viewed as less corrupt than men, the case of Waiguru and Sirisia MP John Waluke, who was convicted simultaneously, paints a grim picture of the double standard. The public's reaction to Waiguru's impeachment, with many questioning the impact of women leaders, is a stark contrast to the treatment of Waluke, who was not subject to the same scrutiny.
Research has shown that women's roles in society, such as being primary caregivers, have led people to believe that they are kinder and more generous. However, a primer by UNDP in 2010 explained that lower levels of corruption by women holding public office may be due to their limited access to corrupt networks, which are often all-male.
Despite this, increasing women's participation in leadership is still a desirable policy choice, even if it does not directly reduce corruption. It would contribute to gender equality and promote a more just society.
As seen in the cases of Dilma Vana Rousseff, Park Geun-Hye, and Édith Cresson, women leaders have been held accountable for their actions and decisions, just like their male counterparts. In fact, research has shown that women are more risk-averse and have a higher intolerance towards corruption in democracies.
