Women's political influence is expanding as gubernatorial and presidential candidates increasingly select female running mates ahead of the August 9 General Election, reflecting a calculated shift in campaign strategies.
Only seven women served as deputy governors in the 2017 election, including Yulita Mitei (Nandi), Fatuma Achani (Kwale), and Cecilia Mbuthia (Nyandarua). Additional women like Dr. Joyce Wanjiku (Kiambu) and Dr. Caroline Karugu (Nyeri) assumed roles after sitting governors were removed from office. Dr. Laboso, who held the Bomet governorship, died in 2019, creating a vacancy that contributed to the current political landscape.
Strategic Nominations ¶
George Natembeya, running on the Democratic Alliance Party of Kenya (DAP-Kenya) ticket, selected Philomena Bineah Kapkor, emphasizing her work in women's empowerment. Taita Taveta Governor Granton Samboja named Priscilla Mwangeka, his former gender adviser, for re-election, citing her grassroots development experience.
Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui broke tradition by appointing Franciscar Kamuren, a Tugen community member, as his deputy after dropping Erick Korir. Kamuren, 47, was described as an accomplished grassroots mobilizer with a focus on community development.
Regional Trends ¶
In Kiambu, all four male gubernatorial candidates chose women as running mates. Incumbent Dr. Nyoro selected Dr. June Njambi Waweru, a medical professional with youth engagement experience. Former Governor William Kabogo picked Esther Ndirangu, a former education executive, while Thika MP Patrick Wainaina chose Anne Nyokabi Gatheca, a cousin of President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Kajiado aspirant Katoo ole Metito named Judy Muthoni Pere, and Bomet's Isaac Ruto selected 29-year-old Doris Chepkoech. Murang’a candidates Irungu Nyakera and Irungu Kang’ata also chose female deputies, highlighting regional patterns of gender-focused nominations.
Expert Perspectives ¶
Gender experts view the trend as progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 5, which emphasizes women's political participation. Eva Komba, a gender development specialist, noted that increased female representation at decision-making levels could address issues affecting vulnerable groups.
Psychologist Gladys Chania, a Kiambu County Woman Representative candidate, highlighted the societal shift in accepting women's leadership. She pointed to Martha Karua's nomination as a running mate for Azimio La Umoja as a pivotal moment in Mount Kenya's political landscape.
