Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has opened up on how the fallen former Karachuonyo MP Phoebe Asiyo played an influential role in shaping her political career.

Speaking during the memorial of the fallen MP on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in Homa Bay County, Mbarire recounted how Asiyo, who is touted as the mother of affirmative action, moved the affirmative action bill in parliament, a moment she says birthed her desire to become an MP.

“I knew Mama Phoebe Asiyo when I was a little girl in primary school. The reason I knew is that my late father was an MP with her. I do not know what he saw in me then, but he knew why he kept telling me that. I want you to be like Phoebe Asiyo; I want you to be like Eddah Gachukia. Those were the two women MPs he talked about that time,” he stated.

Mbarire further recounted her first meeting with the veteran leader and the greater impact she had on her during the moving of the affirmative bill that opened doors for the creation of the woman representative position in Kenya

“I told her the story the first time I met her, and in 1997 I watched her live as she moved the affirmative motion. All women, young and old, were mobilised by Professor Wanjiku Kabira and went to watch the historic motion. I watched her move that motion, talking with grace, and I told myself one day I’ll stand there like this woman. That is the amount of influence Mama Phoebe had on me,” he stated.

In her parting speech, Mbarire hailed Asiyo’s trailblazing career as influential on many women leaders and politicians, such as Gilgil MP Martha Wangari, Naisuda Lesuuda, Governor Gladys Wanga, and MP Millie Odhiambo.

 “She was an impactful woman who, despite mentoring all of us and seeing us rise to the top, remained graceful and all humble. May her soul truly rest in eternal peace,” she parted her speech.

Child Welfare Society of Kenya CEO, Irene Mureithi also joined in tributing Asiyo. In her eulogy, Mureithi hailed the deceased’s role and impact in children’s welfare, education, and politics across the country.

“We celebrate Mama Phoebe, who loved us and loved the children. As the Children Welfare Society of Kenya, we are carrying on your legacy; every stone you laid, we are stepping on it. Your professionalism—we are carrying it,” she stated.