In a powerful display of unity and purpose, Kenyan women Members of Parliament arrived at Parliament Buildings on Monday dressed in coordinated black and pink attire.
They voiced strong opposition to the government’s decision to slash KSh 500 million from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), calling the move unjust and a direct threat to grassroots development.
The protest sparked conversations both inside and outside Parliament, with Kenyans taking to social media to applaud the MPs’ unity and commitment.
Speaking at the event, Kitui Women Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu voiced her frustration, noting that the government’s move would affect their projects and hamper development in the counties.
“We are here not just to express dissatisfaction, but to defend the rights and development of our people. The reduction in NGAAF funding is a step backward for equity and empowerment,” said Hon. Kasalu during an interview with some media personnel.
The MP has been at the forefront of pushing for grassroots-level implementation, particularly in Kitui County.
Kasalu noted that the women leaders would not tire of petitioning the National Assembly to reinstate the funding, stating that the move to slash the allocation was purely malicious.
Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohammed also echoed Kasalu’s sentiments, expressing concern over contradictory statements from Treasury officials regarding the origin of the budget cut.
“It’s unfortunate that women across all 47 counties are being shortchanged,” she said.
She urged the public not to blame their Women Representatives for the funding shortfall, emphasizing that the decision was beyond their control.
Laikipia Woman Representative Jane Kagiri, who chairs the 47 Women Representatives Caucus, said they would move to the National Assembly to demand answers.
“We are wearing black to mourn this deduction, which is an injustice not only to us but to the people of Kenya. Pink represents the NGAAF colours. We will march to both the NGAAF offices and the National Treasury to demand accountability,” said Kagiri.
