MYWO Nairobi Refutes Allegations, Defends Leadership and January AGM Resolutions
Maendeleo Ya Wanawake Organization (MYWO) Nairobi County has dismissed recent allegations circulating in sections of the Gutter media (Citizen) concerning its National Chairperson, Mrs. Rahab Mwikali Muiu, the organization’s leadership, and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on January 30, 2026.
In a statement read on behalf of the MYWO Secretary by Alice Maina a member from Starehe Sub-County, the organization clarified that the current leadership has strengthened governance structures by ensuring AGMs are conducted regularly and in an organized manner, in line with the MYWO Constitution. Prior to this, the group said, AGMs were irregular and often lacked structure. The leadership noted that all counties now hold their respective AGMs before the national meeting as provided under Article 30 of the MYWO Katiba.
MYWO also rejected claims that delegates were mistreated during the recent AGM, terming the allegations as unfounded. The organization maintained that all participants were adequately facilitated and catered for, describing reports to the contrary as misleading and intended to damage its image.
According to the organization, delegates were briefed ahead of the AGM on ongoing programmes, including the National Water Harvesting Programme, the Clean Energy Drinking Water Solution (SAWA CAN) initiative, and a partnership with Buffalo Bicycles aimed at addressing mobility challenges that hinder women’s access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The meeting, MYWO said, focused on showcasing the impact of these initiatives and reinforcing its development agenda.
The organization further clarified that Hon. Senator Beth Mugo was not elected as a trustee, as alleged, but was appointed Patron in accordance with Article 25 of the MYWO Constitution, following a recommendation by the National Executive Committee and ratification by the AGM. MYWO noted that the Patron role is honorary and advisory, distinct from management or executive responsibilities. The appointment followed the passing of Mama Phoebe Asiyo, after a three-month mourning period to honour her legacy.
MYWO added that Maendeleo House is legally registered under the organization’s name and is no longer held by individual trustees, dismissing claims of ownership disputes as inaccurate.
Addressing reports regarding past government involvement, the organization stated that former President Uhuru Kenyatta supported the formal transfer of the property into MYWO’s name and did not seek control of the building.
On its engagement with government, MYWO reiterated that it remains a non-partisan national women’s organization that works with the administration of the day to advance women’s empowerment. The National Chairperson recently paid a courtesy call to President William Ruto, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to collaborate with government in supporting Kenyan women and communities.
The organization called on former leaders and stakeholders to support its continued growth and allow the current leadership to implement its mandate in accordance with the Constitution, while urging an end to misinformation and divisive narratives.
Nairobi Women Leaders Defend Delegate Process, Call for Unity and Development Focus
Women leaders from Nairobi County have defended the recent national delegate process that resulted in the selection of Senator Beth Mugo, dismissing claims of irregularities and urging stakeholders to prioritise unity and development.
Speaking on behalf of Nairobi women, Ruth Kawiira, Nairobi County Chair at the national level, said the process was conducted lawfully and transparently following the vacancy created by the death of Phoebe Asiyo.
“Three months after Phoebe Asiyo’s passing, we moved in accordance with the law. I personally proposed the name of Senator Beth Mugo, the proposal was seconded, and she secured the patron position as provided for within our structures not as a trustee,” Kawiira said.
She rejected allegations raised in sections of the media and political circles suggesting impropriety, maintaining that the process followed established procedures and that no alternative nominees were presented.
“We followed the law and did not engage in anything mysterious. The propaganda surrounding this seat is unfortunate and misleading,” she added.
Kawiira called on women leaders to respect one another and avoid actions that could divide the movement, cautioning against external influence that could create discord.
“As women, we must respect each other and remember the support we extend to one another. Let us give our current leadership time to serve. We are united as Nairobi women,” she said.
Mary Njuguna, Chairlady of Dagoretti North, echoed the sentiments, expressing satisfaction with how the National Delegates forum was conducted.
“We were present at the National Delegates meeting and were given the opportunity to deliberate on issues affecting us. We are satisfied with the process and the discussions that took place,” Njuguna said.
The leaders emphasised that their priority remains development and community welfare, urging that empowerment initiatives should not be entangled with partisan or tribal politics. They cited past programmes, including clean water initiatives supporting mothers and families, as examples of their development-driven agenda.
“Development should not be mixed with politics. Our focus is improving education, supporting our children, and addressing social challenges within our communities,” Njuguna noted.
They added that part of their mandate includes identifying grassroots challenges and volunteering solutions that uplift families and strengthen communities.
The leaders also expressed appreciation to national leadership, including the national chairlady, for guidance during the delegate process, while voicing concern that some media reports did not fully capture their perspective.
Reaffirming their stance, the Nairobi women leaders rejected attempts to politicise or tribalise the issue and called for harmony among stakeholders.
“Our focus is development and the well-being of our families. Let us not allow divisions to derail the progress we seek for women and communities,” they said.
The leaders concluded by reiterating their commitment to lawful processes, unity, and development-oriented leadership across Nairobi County.
