Nominated female legislators are not pleased with being termed ‘flower girls’. They claim that the notion that they don’t measure up to the various roles is discriminatory and paints them in a bad light.

Speaking recently during a political meeting, Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo said it is time that female politicians are recognised and appreciated for the efforts they have put in to ensure development in their various counties.

Millie narrated how she was nominated to parliament in 2007, citing that she initiated various development projects that saw her being re-elected to parliament.

“In 2013, I contested for the Suba North parliamentary seat and won,” she said. 

She believes that good services to the people and not her gender made her win in the election.

“What I always say is that good service delivery is the secret of being elected. That is why I have been working hard on the implementation of the various projects to ensure I have a good track record I can convince residents with,”  Millie said.

Echoing Millie’s sentiments, Homa Bay Woman Rep Gladys Wanga, who is eyeing the Homa Bay governor seat noted that women can drive the development agenda of the country if given the chance. 

Wanga believes that hard work pays and no woman should be frowned upon when vying for any political seat. 

“It does not matter whether a politician is a man or a woman. What is important is the effort in serving the people,” Wanga said, adding,  “One should give their best and pray to God for guidance. It is possible for one to succeed in your endeavours if you work hard,” Wanga said.

Rangwe MP and former Lecturer at Egerton University, Dr Lilian Gogo, believes women have what it takes to succeed in politics.

She revealed how she vied for a parliamentary seat in 2017, and despite being a first-timer, she was elected.

“Empowering the people is key in the development of the society. This is one the agenda which improves my relations with the electorate,” she said.

She believes that the notion that female politicians are weak, is wrong and holds no water.

“I appeal to all Kenyans to stop discriminating against women, especially those in the political space,” she said.

Speaking about her track record, Dr Rogo noted that she has promoted education in her constituency by issuing bursaries to needy students and buying buses to many schools in Rangwe.

“Promoting education makes the constituency have productive people. Let people know that women are good leaders,” Gogo said.