Mithika Linturi has pledged to support commercial sex workers by providing an enabling environment for their trade if elected Meru governor in August 2022.
Addressing about 200 sex workers at a Meru hotel on Wednesday, the controversial politician who was accompanied by his running mate stressed that commercial sex work is a key indicator of a thriving economy.
He said if elected, his administration would come up with legislation and policy measures to address the social and health challenges faced by the sex workers.
Mr Linturi pledged to ensure commercial sex workers access free drugs and condoms to protect themselves in their trade.
“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,” he said.
He lauded the commercial sex workers for being diligent in the use of protection hence preventing the spread of HIV/Aids.
“HIV/Aids is real and there is a need to protect yourselves. I have noted the HIV prevalence in Meru is at 2.5 compared to the national prevalence of 4.9 percent. This means our people are protecting themselves. You should not let off the guard. Let us work towards lowering the prevalence,” Mr Linturi urged.
According to the Meru County health department, there are 31,601 people living with HIV in Meru County, with the majority being the youth.
The Meru gubernatorial candidate claimed commercial sex workers in the county have been badly hit in the last four years due to capital flight as well as Covid-19.
He reiterated his claim the current county administration had caused capital flight by giving contracts to people living out of Meru.
“I know that in Meru, the economy has not been very good because money has not been circulating locally. As governor, I will ensure more contracts are allocated to locals to boost the local economy. This will enable our people to patronize our local entertainment joints,” he said.
He said commercial sex work is a key indicator of a vibrant economy where people have money to spare to seek their services.
“I am well-travelled and know that the best way to know the economy is vibrant commercial sex work is a key indicator. If there is no money, no one will come to seek your services.”
The Meru Senator said if elected, his administration will develop legislation to end the harassment of commercial sex workers.
He also called on the commercial sex workers to speak out against abuse by their clients.
“Do not shy away from speaking about what you do,” he said.
Ms Kiome said their administration will have deliberate programmes and funds for empowerment of women and youth.
“From now on, I am your matron. You should not shy away from visiting my office to share your issues. I will listen and act,” she explained.
The Mt Kenya Law Society of Kenya (LSK) chairperson said their administration will allocate funds to the sex workers to enable them venture into alternative sources of income.