Makueni Official Faces Dismissal After Shocking Comments About Crocodile Attack and Menstruation
Makueni’s Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism, Dr. Sonia Nzilani, may face dismissal after making controversial remarks connecting a girl’s death to her menstrual cycle.
On January 15, Dr. Nzilani suggested that a 17-year-old girl, who was killed in a crocodile attack, might have been targeted because she was menstruating, claiming crocodiles are attracted to the scent of women during their cycle.
Her comments sparked a nationwide backlash, with many accusing her of spreading harmful stereotypes and misinformation.
Makueni’s Deputy Governor, Lucy Mulili, quickly distanced the county from Dr. Nzilani’s statements, calling them insensitive.
“As a government that values the dignity of all citizens, we apologize for Ms. Nzilani’s remarks to the people of Makueni County and Kenya,” the statement said.
Deputy Governor Mulili also reiterated the county’s commitment to eliminating stereotypes about women’s menstrual health, assuring the public of efforts to promote accountability and reform.
The Makueni County government was not the only body to criticize Dr. Nzilani’s comments; wildlife experts also dismissed her claims. They explained that crocodile attacks are driven by predatory instincts, not the menstrual cycle, and crocodiles rely on sensors that detect movements in water.
Reports suggest that Dr. Nzilani may be suspended due to the backlash from her remarks.
The issue of leaders making controversial public statements has been a hot topic lately, with controversial Pastor Ng’ang’a also facing criticism for his recent remarks on assaults on women. The Kenya Women’s Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) condemned his comments, calling them harmful and insensitive. Ng’ang’a had linked certain types of women’s clothing and makeup to rape in a statement made on Monday.
Makueni Official Faces Dismissal After Shocking Comments About Crocodile Attack and Menstruation