Deputy President William Ruto has again thrown his weight behind the Federation of Women Lawyers better known as Fida. For a long time now, Fida has had plans to build a family mediation center. The Federation has even organized a Gala Dinner set for Friday 30th Nov 2018 at the KICC with the guest of honour being William Ruto.
The Federation’s officials today visited the deputy President at his offices with the DP retariating the governments commitment to the establishment of the mediation center.
According to Ruto, the center will aid in amicable resolution of family disputes.
“The Government supports establishment of a mediation centre by Fida that will aid amicable resolution of family disputes. It will offer counselling services, promote access to justice and safeguard interests of children. Assured Fida of our commitment to achieve gender parity,” said Ruto.
Since its inception, FIDA Kenya has changed over 3,000,000 lives. Over 250,000 cases received; 35% resolved through mediation, 53% custody and maintenance cases (Over 400,000 children accessing education, health care, shelter among other basic needs).
22% women’s land and property rights protected including division of matrimonial property. 12,000 police officers trained, 10,000 women leaders supported and 5,000 community women rights monitors recruited among other changes.
The Push for a mediation center by Fida comes at a time that the country is somewhat divided on the 2/3 gender bill with the bill presented by majority leader Aden Duale to the floor of the National Assembly today.
Key political leaders like Raila Odinga, Ruto and President Kenyatta have asked the MPs to Pass the bill so that the country conforms to the requirements on the new constitution.
Ruto has also revealed that a number of MPs have already bought the idea and are in fact pushing for the passage of the bill.
“I am happy that some MPs who have been difficult and opposed to the passage of the Bill including my friend Jimmy Angwenyi have now agreed to support it. I am optimistic that all will be well this time round,” said Mr Ruto.
Ruto said it is time that the leadership of the House avoid politicising the issue adding that: “Our women who form 50 percent of our country’s population deserve an opportunity to be enjoined in the leadership of our great nation.”
Do you Support Fida’s new plans to build a Mediation Center to help solve family disputes?