Press Release-Conduct Unbecoming of Governor Kidero

The National Gender and Equality Commission takes great exception at the ugly incident that occurred this afternoon at City Hall where Nairobi County Governor Dr. Evans Kidero allegedly slapped Nairobi County women representative Hon. Rachel Shebesh.

This is the height of intolerance that reeks of sheer arrogance punctuated by total disrespect for women. Governor Kidero must be told that he cannot use his office to assault honourable or ordinary members of public especially when they are pursuing legitimate issues of public interest.

We wish to bring to Governor Kidero’s attention to the provisions of article 34 (1) and (2) of the Leadership and Integrity Act that states that a State Officer shall not behave in a cruel, malicious or humiliating manner intended at undermining a person. Assaulting a woman Member of Parliament in this day and age by no less a City governor is simply unacceptable. Dr. Kidero has crossed the Red line and must take full responsibility.

NGEC wishes to condemn this primitive and cowardly act unbecoming of a public officer in the strongest terms possible. It is instructive that Hon. Shebesh was in this case physically assaulted and we advise that she seeks legal redress.

The National Gender and Equality remains on high alert and is monitoring cases of discrimination and particularly those informed by gender differences. We shall insist on all public officers to observe fidelity to the rule of law. The Commission shall closely monitor this unfolding sad scenario with a view of ensuring justice is served.

WINFRED O. LICHUMA

CHAIRPERSON