I’d never imagined joining politics

Sotik member of parliament, Dr Joyce Laboso leaves Parliament to Uhuru Park Nairobi on August 27,2010. f PHOTO| WILLIAM OERI

What you need to know:

  • I was a lecturer at Egerton University until when I learnt about the fatal accident involving my sister Lorna (in 2008). It was too shocking to bear.

  • Soon after the burial rites, wazee started requesting me to complete Lorna’s term as MP for Sotik constituency. I gave it a thought and decided to try.

  • This marked the beginning of a transforming journey from academia to politics. I must admit that it was difficult at first to adopt in politics, but with time I gained more courage and confidence.

Dr Joyce Laboso has risen fast to become deputy speaker of the National Assembly; and the Sotik MP does not rule out going for an even higher position

 

Q: You are the first woman deputy speaker in Kenya. How is it like?

A: Yes, after 2013 elections, MPs elected me the first female deputy speaker with majority votes. I did not have to go for round two of the vote thus giving an indication that they had confidence in my leadership ability which I have lived to fulfil.

 

How do you cope in the male-dominated House?

It was worse in the last Parliament where we were only 22 women MPs. However, the 2010 Constitution brought positive changes. We are now 69 women in the National Assembly, I think it is a great move for women in politics; at least we are in the game.

 

How do you manage the inter - party politics in the House?

I have cultivated a personal rapport with MPs; they too have confidence that I will always be fair, neutral and impartial in handling House business.

 

How did you get into politics?

I was a lecturer at Egerton University until when I learnt about the fatal accident involving my sister Lorna (in 2008). It was too shocking to bear.

Soon after the burial rites, wazee started requesting me to complete Lorna’s term as MP for Sotik constituency. I gave it a thought and decided to try.

This marked the beginning of a transforming journey from academia to politics. I must admit that it was difficult at first to adopt in politics, but with time I gained more courage and confidence.

In this unique field, phone calls were my first nightmare, then lack of privacy and deprived moments with family. But I have learnt to manage and balance personal and work-life.

 

But it took some time for you to warm up to the idea...

True. I objected because I did not believe I could be a politician. But I took a step of faith after much reflection and prayers, and decided to participate in the party nominations. Fortunately, I made it to the ballot box. The success gave me more confidence and determination to complete the race.

 

Yours has been a quick rise in political leadership...

From my past experience as a lecturer, I learnt to interact with people from all walks of life. I believe I am focused, organised, clearly identify goals and objectives and ensure they are fulfilled.

 

Do you still have time to lecture?

Honestly no.  I have only managed to supervise one PhD student since joining politics.

 

Are you married and how do you manage to balance between family and work?

I am married. It is admittedly not easy but luckily I have no young children.

 

How many children do you have? Where are they?

We have three adult children. Our first-born son is working in Australia, our second born son is completing a course in piloting in South Africa while our third born (my late Sister’s son) is in Form Two at Kabarak High School.

 

When was the last time you had  dinner together as a family?

Every day with my husband unless we are travelling at different times.

 

Do you anticipate running for any top position in the future?

Now that I have discovered it can be done, it is possible, the sky is the limit. I will go where God leads me.

 

You ditched ODM for URP, why the change?

I think politics is about where you fit best. My region was entirely URP and I had to make a decision to go with the people’s choice then.  I feared that I would not be welcomed in URP for overstaying in ODM. But I was surprised by the overwhelming welcome I received in URP.

 

What are you doing with your position to help other women?

I create time to mentor them through the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association and supporting those showing interest in politics and leadership.

 

What keeps you going?

Another opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.

 

What’s your advice to women MPs who rarely contribute in the House?

I encourage them to express their views. They need to define a niche area and passionately research on it and bring motions and bills for discussion.

 

Do you exercise?

Keeping healthy is very important. It enables me to think fast and remain alert at work. Sometimes, I do morning walks or go to the gym in the evenings where possible.