Makueni’s Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism, Dr Sonia Nzilani, faces potential dismissal over her controversial comments linking a girl’s death to her menstrual cycle.
Dr Nzilani sparked outrage on January 15 when she suggested that a 17-year-old girl, who lost her life in a crocodile attack, may have been targeted because she was menstruating, claiming that crocodiles are attracted to the scent of women during their cycle.
Her remarks have since triggered a national backlash, with the ECM being accused of perpetuating harmful stereotypes and spreading misinformation.
Makueni’s Deputy Governor, Lucy Mulili, has issued a statement distancing the county from Dr Nzilani’s comments, describing them as highly insensitive.
Trade CECM Dr. Sonia Nzilani. PHOTO/ Courtesy.
“As a government that prides itself on upholding the dignity of all citizens, we offer our unreserved apologies for the remarks made by Ms Nzilani to the people of Makueni County and Kenya at large,” the statement read.
Deputy Governor Mulili further reiterated Makueni County’s commitment to dispelling stereotypes surrounding women’s menstrual health.
The statement continued: “The comments have understandably caused widespread discontent, and we assure the public of our unwavering commitment to accountability and reform.”
Notably, the Makueni County government was not the only body to criticise Nzilani’s remarks, as wildlife experts have also debunked her claims. According to experts, there is no scientific or medical evidence linking menstrual cycles to crocodile attacks.
Experts claim crocodile attacks are primarily driven by predatory instincts, and the reptiles have sensors which detect the slightest movements in water, instinctively prompting them to attack.
Meanwhile, multiple reports suggest Nzilani is on the verge of suspension as a result of her controversial remarks.
The issue of leaders making reckless remarks in public has been prevalent in recent times, with controversial Pastor Ng’ang’a also coming under fire on Monday for comments he made about assaults on women.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Kenya Women’s Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) condemned the remarks, describing them as harmful and insensitive.
Ng’ang’a, known for his controversial and sensational views on social issues, made unprintable comments linking certain types of dressing and makeup worn by women to rape.
A photo of Trade CECM Dr. Sonia Nzilani. PHOTO/ Courtesy.