NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 12 – Women seeking elective positions in Kisumu County have raised concerns over political violence, voter bribery, sexual harassment and discrimination within political parties ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The aspirants say intimidation by political gangs, online harassment and unfair nomination practices continue to undermine women’s participation in politics, calling for urgent reforms to guarantee a level playing field.
The concerns emerged during a meeting organised by the Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) to discuss political party accountability and internal reforms on gender inclusion ahead of the next General Election.
The meeting brought together women aspirants and representatives of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC).
In a joint statement read by Kisumu Woman Representative aspirant Linda Ogweno, the women said political intolerance and violence were creating an unsafe environment for female candidates and their supporters.
They cited the activities of groups locally known as Mbogis, Chude Chude, Sangwenya and Security Boys, accusing them of intimidating women candidates and disrupting their political activities.
“We are concerned with the increase in political intolerance, violence and handouts culture in Kisumu County and the lake region ahead of the 2027 elections.
