Kenyan women leaders have rallied behind Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, dismissing criticism over her prolonged absence from office.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 25, the leaders, led by former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga, explained that Kihika is away due to medical complications following the birth of her twins.
The leaders called for empathy and understanding, emphasizing the challenges of balancing leadership and motherhood.
"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.
"We take this moment to reaffirm our unwavering support for her and wish to address public concerns that have been raised regarding her prolonged absence from office due to medical complications following childbirth," read the statement.
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Addressing concerns about governance in Nakuru, the leaders reassured the public that county operations remain uninterrupted under the leadership of the Deputy Governor and the County Executive team.
"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," the statement further read.
The leaders urged the public to exercise patience, calling for a shift in societal expectations of women in leadership positions.
They criticized the notion that women leaders must choose between their professional duties and their well-being, calling for a more inclusive approach to leadership.
"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 expectation that women leaders should sacrifice their well-being and that of their children and families to meet unrealistic demands is unfair and unjust. It is high time that our society embraces a more inclusive and humane approach to leadership—one that acknowledges the biological and social realities of women," the statement read.
Additionally, the women leaders expressed their unwavering support for Kihika, assuring her that her health and well-being are a priority.
"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," the statement added.
Kihika's last public appearance was on November 18, 2024, when she presided over a vocational training graduation ceremony.
Following growing concerns, she issued a statement on January 17, 2025, noting that she is on maternity leave.
"Following numerous calls that I have received regarding my absence, as the elected Governor of Nakuru County, I want to, first of all, assure the people of Nakuru that I am well and currently on maternity leave," Kihika said in the statement signed by Chief of Staff Peter Ketyenye.
