This archive report was first published on 30 November 2019.
On November 30, 2019, a disturbing incident occurred in the National Assembly, highlighting the need for urgent action to ensure the safety of women MPs.
During a heated debate, Kilimani MP Didmus Barasa threatened to punch Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga, causing a stir among her colleagues, including Esther Passaris.
What followed was a concerning display of bias, as Mr. Barasa was assured of protection by House Speaker Justin Muturi, while Ms. Passaris was reprimanded and told not to make the incident personal.
This incident is not an isolated case. In a similar incident, Wajir East MP Rashid Kassim allegedly punched Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Gedi.
These incidents raise serious concerns about the safety of women MPs in the National Assembly. The Employment Act 2007 does not explicitly refer to threats of violence or assault as harassment, but these are criminal acts that must be addressed.
Dismissing this kind of behavior as 'personal' creates a work environment that breeds violence, affecting both employees and the workplace. It is the employer's responsibility to identify individuals who pose a risk and take measures to protect their employees.
Parliament must model itself by doing a better job of addressing the violence within its walls. This includes sending male MPs for sensitivity training and repeat offenders for repeat training, if necessary.
Preventing violence before it occurs is crucial. This year has seen a major trend of escalating violence in the country, and it is essential to pay closer attention to the type of violence and the places where it is occurring.
