Nyeri aspirant claims sexual harassment in Jubilee polls

A parliamentary aspirant from Mathira, Nyeri, has complained of sexual harassment by young men during last week’s Jubilee Party elections.

Cathy Irungu on Tuesday said youths well known to her slapped her, manhandled and touched her inappropriately during the chaotic polls at Nyeri National Polytechnic.

Ms Irungu said goons were hired to intimidate her.

“Some men pushed me to the wall and grabbed my breasts. They also intimidated me to drop my bid and show that I have no space in Jubilee,” said Ms Irungu, who was accompanied by some of her supporters, said at Nyeri Town Police Station.

ASSAULTED

She expressed doubts that suspects would arrested.

“If police will not take any action I will mobilise my supporters for a demonstration to air my complaints,” she said.

“Women are tired of insecurity and violence on gender. I was sexually assaulted during the chaotic party polls and it was a bad experience. Women must be allowed to participate in politics,” she added.

She called on the party on whose ticket President Kenyatta will defend his seat to assure female aspirants of their security.

EXPRESS SELVES

One of her supporters, Mr Phillip Githua, accused some politicians of perpetrating violence and intimidation in a bid to control Jubilee Party in the county.

“Women must be respected and be allowed to express themselves. They must also be allowed to be in leadership. We are in a civilised society. The leadership of Jubilee Party must come out clear and assure women that they have space in the party and guarantee peaceful nominations,” said Mr Githua.

Ms Irungu is battling for the Mathira seat against the incumbent Peter Weru, Rigathi Gachagua, Warutere Thinwa and Julius Ngari.