Senator Faults Decision by Nairobi MCAs to Criminalize Commercial Sex Work

Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga has faulted the decision by Members of Nairobi County Assembly (MCAs) to pass legislation banning commercial sex work in the city.

Omanga, who unsuccessfully contested for the Nairobi Women Representative seat in the August 8th election and was later nominated to the Senate by Jubilee party, condemned the MCAs over the piece of legislation, terming it inappropriate.

''This idea of burying our heads in the sand and pulling our triggers towards the young girls on the streets is not only unfair but is inappropriate by all measure. These girls are some of the poorest in the city. Many do not do it because they enjoy it but simply because they need to survive," said Omanga in a statement.

Omanga said the law was an infringement of the rights of the twilight girls, adding that the county government of Nairobi should have found a way of making their business environment conducive, instead of criminalizing it.

''A unanimous decision to ban an activity that involves a willing buyer willing seller is a matter of human rights infringement and requires serious recheck and analysis. I am of the view that all that is needed is to have an organization to champion the rights of these women and to teach them how to trade safely," she said.

She added: ''The clients too must be cognizant of the fact that the ladies are human beings and require humane treatment. I strongly oppose the move and demand that these women be given audience so that a way forward is found through a proper organizational framework that works for all.''