Raila responds to Waiguru's plea to Uhuru and DP Ruto to have a female Deputy Governor in Bomet to honour Joyce Laboso

Former Prime minister Raila Odinga did not waste time in responding to a passionate plea made by Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru during the funerals service for the late Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso.

Waiguru who was among the speakers at the event pleaded with whoever will take over the Bomet gubernatorial seat from Laboso to settle on a woman as his Deputy.

“On behalf of our sister Joyce…your Excellency, we just want to request with your support and the DP’s support that in Bomet and in her honour that the governor who is taking over sees it in her honour to choose a lady deputy governor to honour our sister". Waiguru stated.

A screen grab of Anne Waiguru addressing mourners at the burial Pulse Live Kenya

She admitted that due to the nature of politics, her request would be a tall order but will be a befitting honour for the deceased government who was a strong believer in women empowerment.

“I know it can be challenging, I know politics we are told that there are many considerations…I will push the request further and request that you get that leader in Joyce’s honour from Sotik.” Waiguru added.

Her request attracted a response from former Prime Minister who was among the dignitaries at the event.

“I see the lady governors coming here and passionately begging that the Deputy Governor (who will take over as the governor) should appoint a woman as his Deputy.”

“I thought that is taken for granted. That was not an issue really because a woman was a governor and a man was the deputy. Now when the woman governor has left the position, its automatic that woman will become the deputy governor. I don’t think that should be an issue.” Odinga remarked attracting an applause from the crowd.

He outlined the gender-based challenges and disadvantages that women face in the quest for leadership positions.

Raila on nominating women and affirmative action

He also defended decision to nominate women for various positions arguing that women are clearly disadvantaged and it is time for the country to address gender issues head-on.

The funeral service for the late governor is currently underway in Fort Ternan.

Body of the Late Joyce Laboso leaving All Saints Cathedral after a memorial service Pulse Live Kenya

Laboso who was among the first three female governors passed on at a Nairobi Hospital after battling cancer for years.

Among the leaders who are present are President Uhuru Kenyatta, his deputy William Ruto, Baringo Senator Gideon Moi, Raila Odinga and a host of governors and elected leaders.

Below is the video of Anne Waiguru making her passionate request, courtesy of Citizen TV.