PRESS RELEASE-NGEC faults nominations of Ambassadors

The National Gender and Equality Commission has faulted the list of nominees to head Kenya’s diplomatic missions in abroad saying gender equality and inclusion of special interest groups was not adhered to.

In a statement to newsrooms, Chairperson Winfred Lichuma said after analysis, the Commission found the list of nominees to have fallen short of individuals in the youth, persons with disabilities, minorities and marginalized communities as well as failing to meet the Constitutional 2/3 gender rule.

“While the Commission is cognizant that the appointments are being done progressively, we are disturbed that the indications so far appear to fly in the face of gender equality and inclusion principles especially for the women, youth and persons with disability and marginalized communities as espoused by the letter and spirit of the Constitution.” said Lichuma.

On Thursday August 14, 2014, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced a raft of changes in the government including nominations of persons to head Kenya’s foreign missions. Out of the 20 nominations, 5 went to women, 3 as ambassadors and 2 as deputy ambassadors.

Article 27(8) of the Kenya Constitution 2010 obligates the State to implement the principle that not more than two-thirds of the members of elective or appointive bodies shall be of the same gender.

Article 232 of the Constitution also provides for the values of public service which include; representation of Kenya’s diverse communities, affording adequate and equal opportunities for appointment, training and advancement at all levels of the public service; of men and women the members of all ethnic groups and persons with disabilities.

Lichuma urge the President to live by his promise to support the empowerment of youth, women and persons with disabilities in key decision making organs.

WINFRED O. LICHUMA, EBS

CHAIRPERSON

NATIONAL GENDER AND EQUALITY COMMISSION

NGEC faults nominations of Ambassadors