President Uhuru Kenyatta has broken his silence over the contentious issue of women empowerement in Kenya, a few days after Chief Justice David Maraga adviced him to dissolve the Parliament.
Maraga argued that the National Assembly had failed in enacting the 2/3 Gender rule, describing it as a clear disregard of the Constitution.
The Head of State has, however, refuted the allegations and insisted that his administration was fully focused on empowering women.
Kenyatta spoke while addressing the military during the passing out parade for recruits at the Moi Barracks in Eldoret County, on Thursday, September 24.
“I have noted that several female soldiers completed their training alongside their male counterparts. This demonstrates that my administration is working to empower the womenfolk.
“It is another manifestation that we strive to ensure equal opportunity for all. It is important that these women while working alongside men, find meaning and purpose for their work,” the President stated.
On Wednesday, September 23, Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga, urged the President to consult widely before making a decision on the dissolution of Parliament.
Odinga admitted that the advisory placed the country and the people of Kenya in a precarious constitutional and political situation that required careful deliberation before any action was taken.
Uhuru further lauded the military for its discipline which he said had been demonstrated through its efforts to curb the spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19) in barracks. Kenyatta was also pleased with the efforts shown by the Defence Forces to support his administration.
“I want to commend all Defence Forces for their professional conduct and support to civil authority,” he highlighted.
Kenyatta further lauded how the military was devoted to curbing terrorism, mourned those who died in service and wished success to the new recruits.
