This archive report was first published on 20 November 2019.
On November 19, 2019, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru delivered a strong response to the verbal attacks aimed at her by the Inua Mama faction of Tanga Tanga.
As one of the leading figures of the Team Embrace, Governor Waiguru has been a strong supporter of the Handshake and the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI). Her public endorsement of ODM candidate Imran Okoth in the Kibra by-election sparked increased attacks from the Inua Mama group.
Speaking at a Nairobi hotel, Governor Waiguru emphasized the importance of being role models for families and communities. She urged everyone to practice politics with respect and understanding, saying, 'As women leaders, we are supposed to be role models for our families and community. As Team Embrace, we want to distance ourselves from the politics of insults and therefore, we urge everyone to practice politics on an understanding that we can disagree without being disagreeable and insulting.'
Waiguru's response was directed at Laikipia Woman Representative Cate Waruguru, who had hurled distasteful sentiments at the Kirinyaga governor over her marriage to lawyer Kamotho Waiganjo.
Team Embrace also warned those opposed to the Handshake, saying they are out to divide the country along party and ethnic lines. Governor Waiguru added that Kenya is ripe for rebirth following the unity championed by President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition leader Raila Odinga.
She said, 'We were once hostile to each other. Now Kenya is headed for a rebirth, as we initiate public engagement across our political divide following our strong unity.'
