Kenya: Martin Wanyonyi becomes the first man with albinism elected MP
A general view of the Kenyan Parliament in Nairobi, March 26, 2015. SIMON MAINA / AFP
Text by: RFI Follow
2 mins
Kenyans still do not know the name of their next head of state, but a significant number of local elected officials have already been announced since the August 9 election.
In the west, a victory was noted: that of Martin Wanyonyi, elected deputy in the constituency of Webuye East.
He thus becomes the first elected deputy affected by albinism, this genetic characteristic which is characterized by an insufficient production of melanin.
His election is a strong symbol in Kenya, where people with albinism have historically been victims of discrimination and even attacks.
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With our special correspondent in Kisumu,
Albane Thirouard
Martin Wanyonyi does not hide his joy.
He was elected to the county assembly;
from now on, he accedes to the seat of deputy.
His desires for politics go back a long way.
He had in mind, from a very young age, to defend the rights of people with
albinism
:
“
No one was defending my rights.
Whether it was my classmates, my teachers or even my parents, no one really understood who I was.
Because of albinism, we often suffer insults, we are excluded, discriminated against… Some even find it difficult to access health care or education.
»
An albino deputy had already entered parliament in 2013, but he had been appointed to represent certain minority groups, such as people with disabilities.
For Martin Wanyonyi, his election marks a further step.
“
For the first time, we are entering generalist politics thanks to universal suffrage.
My election proves that the country is in the right direction.
Gradually, we manage to change the stigmas (that we suffer).
In my region, people no longer see me just as an albino person but as a politician like any other.
»
Martin Wanyonyi does not intend to stop there.
Not as long as people with albinism continue to be stigmatized in Kenya.
He would also like to see more in Parliament.
And even, why not, one day have his name on a presidential ballot.
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