The KANU Women Congress has expressed deep concern over what it describes as insensitive remarks made by Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu towards a student who was seated at the Senate gallery during proceedings on the floor of the Senate.
The women’s wing Chairperson Anne Karuga said that the remarks were laced with inappropriate undertones and amounted to a degrading display directed at the innocence of childhood.
Karuga termed the incident a dishonorable act coming from a member of the Senate, an institution described as the epitome of the rule of law and a space that must be safeguarded for dignity, order and the protection of children.
The Congress Chairperson said that such conduct is unacceptable within the precincts of a legislative chamber. She reiterated the need to uphold decorum and institutional dignity at all times.
Safeguarding Dignity of Parliamentary Spaces
The statement further emphasized that Parliament, and specifically the Senate, should remain a safe and dignified environment for all members of the public, including children who may interact with or observe its proceedings.
Karuga warned that any conduct that undermines the standard risks eroding public confidence in national institutions. The Chairperson added that public participation in parliamentary spaces must always be protected from any form of disrespect.
The statement underscored safeguarding confidence in national institutions.
The Women’s Chairperson also raised concern over Senator Nyamu’s reported hesitation to offer an unqualified and unconditional apology despite what it said was clear direction from the Speaker of the Senate.
Anne Karuga noted that public leaders carry a heightened moral and ethical responsibility and that accountability must begin with those entrusted with public office.
The Congress emphasized that accountability in public office must be demonstrated through clear and decisive action. It reiterated the expectation of ethical conduct from elected and nominated leaders.
Call for Disciplinary Action and Protective Measures
KANU Women Congress called upon the Senate to take appropriate disciplinary action in response to the incident.
It further urged the institution to put in place firm measures that will ensure the dignity and protection of children when they interact with or are present in public institutions such as Parliament.
The statement stressed that such measures are necessary to preserve the integrity of public institutions. It called for consistent protection of children in all interactions with state bodies.
