Ikinu MCA Anne Nyambura has urged women to vie for elective seats in the coming 2017 general elections.
The MCA says that women have a crucial role to play in the country's development agenda and that they should not shy away from active politics.
"Women should come out and vie for elective seats for them to push the country's agenda forward,” she said on Monday during a forum with women at Ikinu grounds in Githunguri Sub County.
The MCA observed that the country will realise its development goals if women actively participate in politics and leadership.
She noted that the constitution has empowered women to vie for various elective seats.
"Women should not be discouraged from seeking elective seats because the constitution has given them the opportunity to seek any seat of their choice," she said.
She urged the National Assembly and the Senate to fast-track the two-thirds gender rule to enable equal representation in government appointments.
Meanwhile, the MCA has urged marginalised groups to apply for government tenders.
The MCA notes that the number of women, youths and persons with disabilities seeking government tenders in the area is low.
“We need women and youth to apply for these tenders so that they can get empowered,” she said.
The MCA said that national and county government has taken key initiatives to empower marginalised groups.