Kilifi women leaders condemned the expulsion of Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa from the ODM party, calling it a violation of gender equity and democratic principles. The criticism emerged during International Women's Day commemorations at Ganze trading centre on March 8, 2019.
Nominated senator Christine Zawadi accused ODM of institutionalized gender bias, stating, "If Jumwa violated party rules, there were alternative mechanisms to address the issue. Expelling her solely on gender grounds undermines women's political participation." Zawadi urged the party to rescind the decision.
Other leaders echoed concerns about systemic challenges facing women in Kenyan politics. Woman representative Getrude Mbeyu highlighted the scarcity of female MPs, arguing, "Jumwa's expulsion threatens progress on gender equality. The Gender Bill's stalled passage reflects the numerical disadvantage women face in the assembly." She emphasized constitutional rights to free association and speech.
Former Mombasa Deputy Governor Hazel Katana criticized ODM's selective enforcement, asking, "Why was Jumwa expelled while others faced no consequences?" Magarini MCA Elina Mbaru defended Jumwa's contributions, vowing, "We will support her through any challenge. Her removal disregards the will of Malindi's voters." Mbaru appealed to Kilifi county ODM chairman Governor Amason Kingi to intervene.
