Kawira Mwangaza: Group Demands EACC To Take Action Against MP, Deputy Governor

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has been urged to take decisive action against Tigania East Member of Parliament (MP) Mpuru Aburi and Meru Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma over alleged derogatory remarks aimed at Governor Kawira Mwangaza.

In a letter dated Friday, November 10 and sent to Viral Tea, the Coalition Against Sexual Violence (CSV) criticised the two leaders over their abhorrent statements, further urging EACC to investigate them.

"We demand that they be held accountable for their actions through appropriate recourse. Their actions deserve swift and decisive action.

Tigania East Member of Parliament (MP) Mpuru Aburi during a past address. /FACEBOOK

"We demand that the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission takes on this matter as these leaders have clearly fallen short of the conduct for a public officer," the statement read in part.

The lobby group also demanded the two leaders to unconditionally withdraw and issue a public apology to Governor Mwangaza for their abhorrent statements.

"We believe that only through strict accountability and consequences can we successfully dismantle the deeply entrenched social and cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women," added the statement.

CSV revealed that the threats of sexual violation against Governor Mwangaza, combined with disparaging comments about her marital status and womanhood had no relation or bearing to the obligations of her office.

The group added that the disgraceful remarks callously uttered to a cheering crowd, represented an appalling attack on the Governor's person, adding that the statements are a gross affront to not only the Governor but also to the dignity of women everywhere.

"Such reprehensible remarks reveal deeply ingrained cultural beliefs that continue to undermine the value of women and their role in society. They perpetuate the idea that women are mere objects for male desires and satisfaction and that they do not belong in leadership roles. This not only normalizes sexual and gender-based violence against women but also promotes rape culture and other harmful practices or attitudes.

"These misogynistic beliefs have had a profound impact on discouraging the participation of women in leadership and political positions, especially in elective seats. When elected representatives of parliament publicly express such sentiments, it comes as no surprise that women tend to shy away from vying for political leadership positions, fearing further humiliation and harm," added the group.

The remarks by MP Aburi and the Deputy Governor, CSV added, are not isolated cases but are a reflection of the society's stance on the place of women.

CSV nonetheless lauded the Senate for adhering to the rule of law and calling out the sexism and misogyny directed towards Governor Mwangaza, before the majority decision to have Mwangaza remain in office, despite persistent calls by Meru Members of County Assembly (MCA) to impeach her.

The Senators voted on the midnight of Thursday, November 9 to dismiss all seven charges levelled against her that warranted her second impeachment.

"The result of the division indicates that the Senate has not upheld any of the impeachment charges. The Senate has failed to remove from office by impeachment Governor Kawira Mwangaza and the Governor accordingly continues to hold office," Senate Speaker Amason Kingi announced after the Senators cast their votes.