Meru Senator Mithika Linturi Pledges Free Condoms to Sex Workers if Elected Governor

Meru Senator Mithika Linturi has pledged to support commercial sex workers should he be elected as the county’s next governor.

Linturi, who is eyeing the Meru gubernatorial seat on a UDA party ticket, says his administration will provide an enabling environment for their trade.

Speaking during a meeting with a group of over 200 sex workers at a Meru hotel on Wednesday, Linturi said commercial sex work is a key indicator of a thriving economy.

Linturi, who was flanked by his running mate Linda Kiome, said his administration would come up with legislation and policy measures to address the social and health challenges facing sex workers.

His government, he said, will provide free drugs, vaccines and condoms to sex workers for their safety.

“We will have an adequate supply of drugs, condoms and vaccines in our hospitals. Never again will our hospitals run out of drugs and condoms. We will also ensure you access vaccines needed to protect yourselves against STIs and cervical cancer,” Linturi said.

“HIV/Aids is real and there is a need to protect yourselves. I have noted that the HIV prevalence in Meru is at 2.5 compared to the national prevalence of 4.9 per cent. This means our people are protecting themselves. You should not let off the guard. Let us work towards lowering the prevalence.”

Linturi urged the sex workers to speak out against abuse by their clients and not shy away from speaking about their trade.

“I am well-travelled and know that the best way to know the economy is vibrant [is to look at] commercial sex work as a key indicator. If there is no money, no one will come to seek your services,” he remarked.