The Makueni County Government has suspended Dr. Sonia Nzilani, the Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Trade, Marketing, Industry, Culture, and Tourism, following public uproar over her controversial remarks linking menstruating women to crocodile attacks.Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. announced the 45-day suspension on Monday, citing the need to address the fallout from the statement made during a funeral in Kithaayoni, Kathonzweni sub-county.
The Controversial Remarks
The incident occurred at the burial of a 17-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a crocodile attack while fetching water from the Athi River. During her eulogy, Dr. Nzilani claimed that menstruating women could attract crocodiles, suggesting this as the reason behind the fatal attack.
Her remarks were met with widespread criticism from local residents, advocacy groups, and experts, who labeled the comments as unscientific and deeply insensitive.
Backlash and County Government Response
The public outcry prompted the Office of Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili to issue a press statement distancing the county administration from Dr. Nzilani’s remarks.
“As a government that upholds the dignity and well-being of all citizens, we sincerely apologize to the people of Makueni and Kenya at large for these personal views, which do not reflect the official stance of this administration,” the statement read.
The Deputy Governor also reaffirmed the county’s commitment to promoting menstrual health awareness, gender equality, and inclusivity, noting that significant strides have been made to dispel harmful myths and stereotypes about women’s health.
Experts Dispel Myths About Crocodile Behavior
Wildlife and medical professionals have strongly refuted Dr. Nzilani’s claims. Dr. Paul Mutua, an immunologist, clarified that no scientific evidence supports the idea that menstrual blood attracts crocodiles.
“Crocodile attacks are primarily influenced by predatory instincts, territorial behavior, and human activities near water sources. These attacks are not triggered by human biological factors like menstruation,” said Dr. Mutua.
Crocodile attacks, while rare, are a pressing concern in regions like Makueni, where communities rely heavily on rivers for water. Experts have emphasized the importance of educating residents about safety measures to reduce the risks of such incidents.
Makueni’s Water and Wildlife Safety Initiatives
The county government highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Athi-Tunguni-Kilima and Athi-Mavindini Water Projects, aimed at improving access to safe water and reducing human-wildlife conflicts along the River Athi.
“These initiatives are critical in addressing water shortages and ensuring that residents do not have to risk their lives while fetching water from crocodile-inhabited rivers,” said Deputy Governor Mulili.
Dr. Nzilani Issues Public Apology
In response to the backlash, Dr. Nzilani offered a public apology, explaining that her remarks were misunderstood and not intended to spread misinformation.
“I regret the distress caused by my comments and reaffirm my commitment to serving the people of Makueni responsibly,” she stated.
