Bungoma County Maendeleo ya Wanawake group has strongly condemned Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa over alleged sexist remarks directed at UDA Nominated Senator Conny Wakwabubi, in which he reportedly told her to “get her a husband” during a public event at Amutala Stadium in Kimilili ahead of President William Ruto’s visit to the region.
Speaking to the press in Bungoma on Thursday, March 26, Winrose Wafula said it was unfortunate for the MP to demean the senator in public considering that she lost her husband many years ago.
The group termed the remarks as gender based violence (GBV) against a woman leader.
“We are the ones who elected Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa and the comments he made about our leader were not only demeaning but also an insult to the women of Bungoma who entrusted him with leadership,” she said.
She urged the MP to refrain from making what she termed as offensive and controversial remarks against women leaders, emphasising the need for respect and dignity in public discourse.
She noted that Wakwabubi remains the only female leader from Bungoma at the national level, making such attacks even more disheartening to local women.
“Above all, we appreciate the President, William Ruto, for appointing Senator Wakwabubi. She is one of our own and as women of Bungoma, we will continue to stand by her and protect her from any form of disrespect,” she added.
The women leaders also called on Barasa to issue a public apology to Wakwabubi.
“We do not want to hear such remarks from the Kimilili MP, especially at a time when he has expressed interest in the Bungoma gubernatorial seat. Leadership at that level requires one to work with all leaders, regardless of gender or political affiliation and to promote unity rather than division. Insulting fellow leaders is unacceptable and paints a bad picture of the kind of leadership he intends to offer.”
‘Apologise or face our wrath’
They further warned that failure by the MP to apologize and retract his comments would have political consequences, noting that women form a significant voting bloc in the county.
The leaders cautioned that they would mobilize against his gubernatorial ambitions if he does not demonstrate respect.
“Should he fail to apologize for the remarks he made, we will have no option but to withdraw our support. As women, we are organized and determined and we will not back a leader who disrespects us and our representatives. We are ready to use our votes to send a strong message,” they added.
