Rights activist opposes Okiya Omtatah’s opinion on two-thirds gender principle

NAIROBI: Patriarchy has been cited as the main reason behind the activist Okiya Omtatah’s court challenge on two third gender rule.

 

Center for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW) Executive Director Wangechi Moegi said for Okiya Omtatah to go to court to stop the decision that was made by Justice Mumbi Ngugi was really unacceptable added that there was already a fifth schedule  which was started from the promulgation of the constitution.

“This is one of the laws that needed to have been put in place before August 27 this year. What Omtatah is doing is completely unacceptable because the 2/3rd gender rule has already been anchored in the constitution” she said.

While citing the recent ruling of Justice Mumbi made on June 26, directing the Attorney-General (AG) and the Commission for Implementation of the Constitution (CIC) to move with speed and prepare Bills to ensure men and women are fully represented in elective and public appointments; Wangechi stated that the Attorney General Githu Muigai has failed to bring on board a legislation of a bill to be discussed on implementation of gender rule.

She further added that the 2/3rd gender rule is a principle that cannot be ignored and its guaranteed. According to the Creaw Executive Director various courts have given directions for the fifth schedule.

In his application, Omtatah said it was unconstitutional for AG and CIC to comply with the gender principle. Wangechi cautioned Omtatah from interfering with constitution adding that women have a right to vote in the constitution.

“You cannot just wake up one morning and say whether you want it or not. It’s already guaranteed in the constitution. Omtatah cannot tell women of Kenya when their constitutional right needs to be met.” She said.

“I don’t think the court will contradict itself by giving a different opinion since the high court and Supreme Court have been allies of women of Kenya. We are optimistic with court’s rulings since they have consistently listen and giving us direction that are required in achieving 2/3rd gender rule.” She said.

Moegi concluded that, with the support from women who are members of parliament, they are optimistic that the bill will pass through.