Women leaders from the Maa Community have denounced the cyberbullying and sexual harassment directed at Soipan Tuya, the Defence Cabinet Secretary nominee. Tuya, who was initially appointed as Environment CS in President William Ruto’s first cabinet on July 19, was reassigned to the Defence docket on July 23.
Her retention in Ruto's new cabinet, amid a reshuffle that excluded other previous members, led to heightened scrutiny and negative comments on social media, including inappropriate sexual remarks about her career advancement.
This criticism has surfaced despite Tuya's extensive leadership experience, including two terms as the Woman Representative for Narok County. In response, women legislators from Laikipia, Samburu, and Kajiado Counties have condemned the online harassment and gender-based violence aimed at Tuya.
"We urge the relevant authorities to address this gender-based violence. It's unacceptable that every time a woman is appointed, derogatory comments follow. All the appointed women are qualified," the legislators asserted. "We personally know Tuya. What we are witnessing is gender-based violence, and those circulating doctored images should be held accountable. It's concerning that when a woman is appointed, rumors about her being someone's girlfriend begin to circulate."
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Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo also condemned the attacks, advocating for equal standards in evaluating both male and female leaders. "I want to encourage the Gen Zs. I support them, but let's not fall into the trap of sexual innuendos," Odhiambo said.
Tuya, a University of Nairobi law graduate, has a background as a legal officer for non-profit organizations before entering politics.
