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Many social media users have succeeded in their evil agenda of misogyny. They have managed to scandalise women leaders, especially those with good looks.

Scandalising women in leadership positions is rooted in a patriarchal culture that views women as secondary to men and unworthy of leadership unless they have some connection to a powerful male figure. Consequently, when a woman attains a significant position of power, she is often met with scepticism and subjected to unfounded allegations that seek to discredit her achievements.

For instance, when Anne Waiguru was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Devolution in 2013, she was quickly thrust into the spotlight. Despite her impressive credentials and the reforms she spearheaded, she faced an onslaught of misogynistic attacks on social media. Her leadership was constantly undermined by accusations that she was only in power because of her supposed connections to influential men.

The online abuse escalated when Waiguru was implicated in the National Youth Service scandal. While male leaders involved in similar scandals were criticised for their actions, Waiguru’s gender was used as a weapon against her, with critics suggesting that her involvement was indicative of her inability to lead due to her being a woman.

— Kamomonti wa Kiambati teaches English and Literature in Gatundu North. He is the author of Maintaining Healthy Boundaries in Schools