Women took to the streets across Machakos Town, Mlolongo, Athi River, Mwala, Matungulu, Kangundo, Masinga, and Kithimani Yatta in protest against what they described as degrading, sexist, and gender-based remarks allegedly directed at Governor Wavinya Ndeti by Mavoko MP Patrick Makau. 
By Fredrick Kioko,
A wave of protests swept across several towns in Machakos County as women from Machakos Town, Mlolongo, Athi River, Mwala, Matungulu, Kangundo, Masinga, and Kithimani Yatta took to the streets to express outrage over what they termed as derogatory and sexist remarks allegedly directed at Governor Wavinya Ndeti by Mavoko MP Patrick Makau.
The demonstrators staged vocal and symbolic protests, carrying placards and chanting slogans against gender-based violence. Some of the protesters were seen carrying bras and innerwear as a symbolic expression of defiance, accusing the legislator of disrespecting women leaders and contributing to what they described as a growing culture of political intolerance and misogyny.
According to the protesters, any form of verbal or political attack directed at women in leadership is not only an affront to the individual leader but also an attack on the dignity and rights of women across the country. They called for a shift in political discourse, urging leaders to abandon insults, intimidation, and character attacks in favour of constructive and issue-based engagement.
The demonstrations spread rapidly across the county, drawing attention from political observers and residents alike. The protests have since ignited heated debate within Machakos, with calls emerging for greater accountability among political leaders and stronger protection of women in public office.
As tensions continue to rise, stakeholders are urging calm while also emphasizing the need for respectful political dialogue, especially as the county’s political climate becomes increasingly charged ahead of future engagements.
