Women Lawyers Condemn Karen Nyamu Remarks Toward Grade 10 Student

Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya has strongly criticized nominated senator Karen Nyamu following remarks she allegedly made toward a Grade 10 female student who had visited Parliament under a voluntary service programme.

In a statement released on May 9, 2026, FIDA-Kenya chairperson Christine Kungu expressed concern over what it described as growing public behavior that humiliates and demeans girls, particularly in leadership spaces that should remain safe for children and young women.

The organization said the comments directed at the student were inappropriate and failed to uphold the responsibility of leaders to protect children and respect their dignity.

“Children should never be used for sensationalism, ridicule, or public entertainment,” the statement read.

FIDA-Kenya further warned that public remarks targeting minors could negatively affect their emotional well-being and send a harmful message to girls across the country that public leadership spaces are unsafe and disrespectful to women and children.

According to the organization, Parliament and other public institutions must remain environments where young people can learn, engage, and participate in leadership without fear of humiliation or harassment.

The lobby group also raised alarm over the increasing exposure of minors on social media, saying the circulation of videos and online commentary involving underage girls violates their dignity, privacy, and emotional safety.

“The comments made in Parliament were inappropriate, demeaning, and did not meet the constitutional duty of leaders to uphold dignity, integrity, respect, and protect children,” FIDA-Kenya stated.

The organization called for stricter enforcement of child safeguarding standards in Parliament and other public institutions. It also urged political leaders and public officers to undergo training on child protection, gender sensitivity, ethical leadership, and prevention of sexual harassment.

In addition, FIDA-Kenya appealed to media houses, bloggers, and digital platforms to adopt ethical and trauma-informed reporting practices when handling stories involving minors.