Senator Mutinda to women politicians: Beauty won’t win you votes

Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda has urged Kenyan women in politics to move away from image-driven campaigns and embrace agenda-based leadership.

Speaking during a radio interview on Friday, July 11, 2025, Mutinda said it was time for women leaders to present themselves based on the strength of their ideas, strategies, and manifestos, not appearance or sympathy appeals.

“It’s high time we desist from presenting ourselves like the weaker species,” Mutinda said during the live broadcast. “You don’t win leadership by saying ‘I look hot’ or ‘I’m a woman, so feel pity for me and vote for me.’ That is wrong.”

Mutinda emphasised that leadership should be earned through planning, teamwork, and issue-based platforms that resonate with all Kenyans, regardless of gender. She noted that strong, strategic thinking is what earns public trust, not personal appeal.

The Senator also applauded the rising political awareness among Kenya’s youth, especially in the wake of the recent Gen Z-led protests. She pointed out that many young people are now embracing national unity over tribal or regional identities.

“Our young people are coming out carrying the Kenyan flag, not Mount Kenya, not Eastern, not Rift Valley. They are reminding us that we must have a conversation of oneness,” she said.

Mutinda, who serves as a nominated MP under the Kenya Kwanza coalition, said that real transformation in leadership will only happen when both women and men push for policy-driven conversations and collaborative governance.

“Teamwork is the way to go,” she added. “If we want to build this country, we must start by presenting solid ideas, not just personalities.”

Her comments come at a time when the country is witnessing heightened political activity, with both new and seasoned leaders jostling for relevance ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Critics, however, argued that appearance and identity still play a role in political visibility and representation, especially for marginalised groups.

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