MPs Rush To Susan Kihika's Rescue After Demands To Trump To Deport Her

The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) on Tuesday, March 25, staged a press briefing to defend Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, shielding her from criticism regarding her prolonged absence from the county office.

The MPs began by stating, "As Women leaders of Kenya, we stand here today in solidarity with Governor Susan Kihika, a dedicated public servant and a mother who has recently welcomed twins into the world. We congratulate her on the birth of her children. They are a blessing from GOD and we give thanks."

In their address captured in a statement to newsrooms, the leaders, led by former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga, reminded Kenyans that childbirth is a natural, unique and deeply personal process, one that does not spare anyone, including women leaders.

Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) leaders during a press conference on March 25, 2025. /KEWOPA

They recognised the tricky challenges that come with balancing public service and family commitments, as well as the joy and unforeseen medical complications that come with motherhood, thus the need for time off from duties to focus on recovery and healing.

"It is important to acknowledge that her extended absence is due to circumstances beyond her control. As a mother, she has had to prioritize her health and that of her children. We commend her for making the responsible choice to focus on recovery while ensuring that the operations of Nakuru County continue under the able leadership of her Deputy Governor and the County Executive team.

"We call upon the people of Nakuru and the nation at large to exercise patience, empathy, and understanding: Women in leadership are not exempt from the realities of motherhood. We are not only Governors, Senators, and public officials; we are also mothers, daughters, sisters, and aunties," the statement added.

KEWOPA termed the expectation that women leaders should sacrifice their well-being and that of their children and families to meet unrealistic demands as unfair and unjust, urging society to embrace a more inclusive and humane approach to leadership—one that acknowledges the biological and social realities of women.

The MPs also used the presser to urge institutions at all levels to support women in leadership by fostering environments that accommodate their needs as both professionals and caregivers. The advancement of gender equality in leadership must go hand in hand with policies that uphold the dignity and well-being of women.

"To our dear sister, Governor Susan Kihika, we stand with you. We celebrate your resilience, and we assure you that your health and well-being matter. We look forward to your full recovery and eventual return to serve the great people of Nakuru.

"Let us all remember: leadership does not pause because of motherhood. Instead, it is enriched by the diverse experiences and strengths that women bring to the table. You can lead. You can be a mother. You can be both. And we will stand together to ensure that no woman is ever forced to choose between the two," they continued.

The lawmakers concluded by demanding an end to the gendered attacks on Governor Susan Kihika and other women leaders.

They also demanded respect for the rights of women leaders to take legally recognized maternity leave without facing political bullying, as well as a fair political environment where leadership is judged by performance and integrity, not gender or motherhood.

KEWOPA spoke hours after Evans Kimori, a Kenyan living in Nakuru, petitioned US President Donald Trump to deport Governor Kihika, who has been on maternity leave in the United States (US).