KEWOPA distances itself from Nyamu Senate remarks

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‎The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association has publicly distanced itself from remarks made in the Senate by Karen Nyamu, saying the sentiments risked undermining the dignity and well-being of children.

‎In a statement issued Friday, KEWOPA chairperson Leah Sankaire said the association was concerned by comments made by the nominated senator regarding a student participating under the voluntary service scheme in Parliament.

‎“KEWOPA wishes to firmly condemn and distance itself from sentiments that may undermine the dignity, safety, and well-being of children,” Sankaire said.

‎The association said children visiting Parliament should be treated with respect and encouraged to see public institutions as safe and empowering spaces that nurture leadership and ambition.

‎“At a time when young girls across the country are looking up to leaders for guidance, mentorship, and inspiration, it is critical that public institutions remain spaces that nurture confidence, ambition, and civic participation,” the statement read.

‎The women lawmakers’ caucus warned that utterances exposing children to ridicule, objectification or discomfort weaken efforts aimed at promoting safe and inclusive environments for young people.

‎“Children who visit Parliament should leave encouraged to believe in their potential and their place in leadership and national development,” Sankaire said.

‎KEWOPA further reaffirmed its commitment to championing policies and public discourse that uphold children’s rights as enshrined in the Constitution and child protection laws.

‎The association also defended women's leadership as being anchored on “care, mentorship, accountability, and safeguarding the welfare of children and young people.”

‎Without directly detailing the controversial remarks, the statement appeared aimed at cooling growing public criticism following debate online over comments allegedly made during Senate proceedings.

‎The caucus urged leaders and public officers to exercise caution and sensitivity whenever addressing issues involving children.

‎“We encourage leaders and public officers to exercise responsibility and sensitivity in their public utterances, particularly where children are concerned,” Sankaire added.

‎The latest development places renewed scrutiny on conduct and language used by public officials, especially in spaces involving minors and young learners engaging with national institutions.

Nyamu was forced to offer unreserved apologies on the floor to the student, family and public following her remarks.

“I hereby tender my unreserved apology to the Senate, the student under the School Voluntary Service Scheme, the family of the student and the public,” Nyamu said.

“I acknowledge that the utterances were inappropriate and fell short of the dignity, decorum and respect expected of a state officer, particularly towards a young female learner.”

According to speaker Amason Kingi, the statement undermined the dignity of the student.