Vihiga Woman Representative hopeful Amakove Wala has sparked debate after sharing the challenges women face on the campaign trail.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Wala reflected on her experience at the recent Linda Mwananchi rallies. She said female aspirants face physical, emotional and practical challenges that many people do not see.
Her remarks came after she attended Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s homecoming, one of the opposition’s major political events over the weekend.
Campaign Trail Not Easy
Wala said she has attended rallies in Mombasa, Nakuru, Vihiga, Kisumu, Machakos, Thika, Trans Nzoia and Bungoma.
She said the experience has shown her that politics is demanding. She added that first-time candidates, especially women, must adapt quickly.
Wala recalled attending her first rally in Mombasa wearing a flowing dress. A friend advised her to change into jeans, a T-shirt and sports shoes before joining the crowd.
She said campaign rallies are often crowded and unpredictable. Candidates compete for space on the stage and sometimes get only a few seconds to speak.
She also said women should expect tough conditions. According to Wala, security officers may lift candidates onto the stage, while crowded podiums leave little personal space.
Advice for Female Aspirants
One of the most discussed parts of her post focused on menstruation during campaigns.
Wala advised women expecting their periods to plan ahead. She suggested speaking to a healthcare professional about safe options or using suitable menstrual protection because campaign schedules rarely allow enough time for personal needs.
She explained that campaign convoys often travel long distances without stopping. This can make it difficult to access toilets or change sanitary products.
Wala also encouraged women to work closely with security personnel. She said they often provide support and protection during crowded political events.
She urged female candidates to remain confident and fight for their space. At the same time, she advised them to leave any situation that becomes unsafe.
Reactions from Leaders
The post drew reactions from several women in politics.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo said Wala’s experience reflected issues she discussed in her book Rig or Be Rigged. She pointed to the chapter titled No Manners Please, We Are in Politics.
Political strategist Pauline Njoroge also agreed with Wala. She described campaigning as difficult but rewarding. She added that women face extra challenges while managing their personal needs during long campaign events.
From Medicine to Politics
Wala trained as a medical doctor. She practised medicine for six months before moving into the corporate sector and later entrepreneurship.
She is now seeking elective office for the first time as she campaigns for the Vihiga Woman Representative seat.
In an earlier interview on Citizen Digital’s She Means Business, Wala said she chose to run in Vihiga because she wanted to serve her home county.
She also responded to criticism about her fluency in the local dialect. Wala said voters should judge leaders by their vision, integrity and service instead of the language they speak.
