First Lady Margaret Kenyatta attended a two-day meeting of spouses of members of parliament in Nairobi, where she emphasized the importance of recognizing the roles spouses of national politicians and elected leaders play in the country's public life.
The meeting brought together wives and husbands of sitting legislators to acknowledge their contributions as the power and strength behind their politician-partners.
According to the First Lady, "As spouses of leaders (MPs), you are well placed to create positive attitudes in our country." She urged the country to appreciate and support wives of elected leaders, who drive change in their communities and serve as unofficial links to their serving husbands.
First Lady Kenyatta noted that women, including those married to politicians, often face unfair treatment and have their interests overlooked. However, she argued that spouses of elected leaders are also leaders in their own right, citing her own experience with the Beyond Zero project, which focuses on maternal health.
Faiza Junet, wife of Suna East MP Junet Mohammed, highlighted the importance of the spousal organization in fostering national cohesion and creating linkages between people. She also pointed out that spouses of political leaders can be effective lobbyists, as they understand the issues their husbands care about.
"At the end, they are our husbands and after all is said and done they come back home to us so we can reason with them and correct them where we feel they are going wrong in terms of the interests of this country," Faiza Junet said. "Our aim is to unite the country and bring Kenyans together."
The National Assembly Lady Spouses Association comprises women professionals and homemakers, who often work behind the scenes as their husbands take center stage on national issues.
Dr. Monica Juma, the newly appointed Secretary to the Cabinet, accompanied First Lady Kenyatta to the meeting.
