It was an all-women affair on Thursday as Kenyan women leaders united to defend the unity deal between President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Led by Kirinyaga governor Anne Waiguru and Homa Bay woman representative Gladys Wanga, the leaders launched the Embrace – Women Building Bridges for Kenya movement.
They said they decided to overcome their political differences for the good of the country in line with the handshake between Uhuru and Raila.
The movement, they said, was aimed at uniting all Kenyans and advocating for peace across the country.
They donned pink caps and pink-collared white t-shirts as they chanted “No more bloodshed, no more tribalism!” on their way to unveiling the movement at the Serena Hotel.
They described the handshake deal as an act of courage and sacrifice and condemned early campaigns which they say are polarising Kenya.
“Women leaders stand with President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga in rejecting early campaigns that are polarizing Kenya.
We embrace inclusivity and reject politics that puts tribe against tribe, region against region and party against party. We embrace the war on corruption that robs our women and children of their livelihoods.
“We fully stand with our two leaders in the trajectory they have put our country on, it is the only way to a secure prosperous and stable future any other path is one to darkness and doom,” the women’s statement read.
Other leaders who spoke at the Serena Hotel presser include Homa Bay Woman Representative Gladys Wanga, Murang’a Woman Rep Sabina Chege, Likoni MP Mishi Mboko and Taveta MP Naomi Shaban.
“As women of Kenya we want President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga to know that wherever they are, we support them wholeheartedly because the people who suffer the most from violence are the women and children,” Ms Wanga stated.
The leaders said they will rollout a national caravan to sensitize Kenyans on peace, unity and fight against corruption.
They also lauded Deputy President William Ruto, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Kanu chairman Gideon Moi and ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi for supporting the “noble initiative”.
“We urge them to stay true to that moment that gave fresh hope to this nation,” they said.
