Muslim women urged to go for elective posts

By PHILIP MWAKIO

Former Chief Kadhi Hamad Kassim is urging more Muslim women to seek elective posts.

“Men have been tried and tested in various leadership positions. The results are all clear to see with many being embroiled in grand corruption scandals,’’ said Sheikh Hamad.

He was speaking in Mombasa yesterday during the official launch of the investment group Kenya Muslim Women Finance Services.

He urged women not to feel intimidated or victimised in any way, as the Constitution was clear in how women ought to be represented.

“Times when you (women) used to play second fiddle are long gone. Rise up and seek leadership positions,’’ he said.

A cross section of Muslim women hailed the announcement by the former Chief Kadhi as laudable.

Caucus for Women Leadership, Mombasa County convenor, Amina Zuberi, said they were excited by the Kadhi’s approval of women to join active politics.
“Over time, we have been subjected to stiff opposition by among others, our male colleagues, who have not approved plans by Muslim women to seek elective posts,” she told the congregation.

Teachings
Ms Zuberi said even teachings from the Quran talk about a girl and a boy child being given equal education to prepare them for well deserving jobs in life.

So far only two Muslim women, Sureya Hersi, current chairperson of Maendeleo ya Wanawake Coast and banker Naima Badhawi have shown interest in seeking elective posts in the coming General Election.

The former Chief Kadhi challenged the women to remain united in their quest to excellence in life.
“You have the will to succeed in whatever projects you want to undertake by your sheer determination to come together and form this group. Let divisions not creep in here,” he said.