Kenyans urged to elect woman as Deputy President

NAIROBI, Kenya

President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday drummed up support from the Azimio La Umoja Coalition ahead of the upcoming General Election.

In an unprecedented move during the 59th Madaraka Day celebrations, Kenyatta said Kenya was on the verge of once again setting history by having the first woman as deputy president, an indirect call of support for Azimio’s presidential running mate Martha Karua.

"In August of this year, if it the wish of the Kenyan electorate, we have a chance of electing a woman and shattering the glass ceiling by assuming the second-highest position in the republic of Kenya," said President Kenyatta.

President Kenyatta further outlined how his 10-year tenure has fast-tracked the promotion of women leadership and expanded their participation in governance, a move he says he is proud of.

"Today, and thanks to the 2010 constitution and my commitment to equality and inclusivity I have had the pleasure of working with 11 women in my cabinet at different offices and capacities," said Kenyatta.

"I appointed Fatuma Ahmed as the first woman Major General of our Defense forces in 2018. And of course we have the three arms of government one of which is now headed by a woman after 58 years and we saw the Honorable Lady Justice Martha Koome assumed office."

The Head of State called on Kenyans to remain peaceful in the run-up to the elections, saying that politics should not be a basis for disunity.

He asked the nation to shun politicians who are out to spread hate and divisions.