The KANU Women Congress has condemned remarks made by Nairobi Senator Karen Nyamu during a Senate sitting involving a Grade 10 student, describing them as “degrading” and a violation of the dignity expected within public institutions.
In a statement issued on Friday, May 8, 2026, the women’s wing of KANU said the incident reflected a failure to uphold respect for children who engage with Parliament through educational programmes.
The group further called on the Senate to take disciplinary action and strengthen safeguards for minors interacting with state institutions.
“We have noted with deep concern the recent insensitive remarks laced with inappropriate undertones made by Senator Karen Nyamu towards a student at the gallery during proceedings on the floor of the Senate,” the statement read.
The controversy stems from a session in which Nyamu engaged a Grade 10 student participating in a school programme.
Her remarks were widely interpreted as inappropriate, sparking public criticism from leaders and civil society actors who accused her of embarrassing the student in a formal parliamentary setting.
KANU Women Congress said the conduct fell short of the standards expected of elected leaders, especially in spaces regarded as symbolising national dignity and constitutional order.
“It was a dishonorable display of indignity towards the innocence of childhood by a supposed honorable Senator. The Senate is a hallowed institution and the epitome of the rule of law and must remain a safe, dignified and protected space for children,” the statement added.
The group also questioned the Senator’s response after the incident, arguing that her apology did not meet the threshold of accountability expected from public office holders. According to the statement, Nyamu appeared hesitant to issue a full apology despite direction from the Speaker.
“Equally concerning was the Senator’s hesitation to offer an unqualified and unconditional apology despite clear direction from the Speaker,” it stated.
KANU Women Congress Chairperson Anne Karuga said public officials carry a higher moral responsibility and must lead by example, particularly when interacting with children.
“Public leaders bear a higher moral and ethical responsibility, and accountability must begin with those entrusted with public office. We therefore call upon the Senate to take appropriate disciplinary action and put in place firm measures to ensure dignity and protection for children interacting with public institutions,” Karuga said.
The incident has continued to generate debate on parliamentary conduct, youth engagement in governance spaces, and the standards of decorum expected from elected leaders in Kenya.