A casual interaction between two legislators has ignited a firestorm of controversy after Kisii Woman Representative Dorice Donya appeared to endorse Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) during a conversation with Lang'ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang'o.

The exchange, captured on video, highlights the persistent cultural friction slowing Kenya's fight against the outlawed practice, particularly as the December holiday season—a peak period for traditional rites—approaches.

A Disturbing Proposition

In the footage circulating on social media, Donya is heard outlining plans for the coming month, specifically targeting young girls in her constituency. Her justification for the cut relied on a deeply entrenched, yet scientifically baseless, cultural trope: that the procedure is necessary to control female behavior.

"Disemba, Kisii tunatahirisha wasichana, ndio wasikuwe 'papapa papapa' (In December, we are subjecting girls to FGM in Kisii so that they do not become too talkative)," Donya stated.

The remarks immediately provoked a visceral reaction from Jalang'o. Visibly disgusted, the Lang'ata legislator did not mince words, dismissing the suggestion as archaic and harmful.

"What nonsense is that! That nonsense still happens these days?" Jalang'o retorted, urging his colleague to use her platform to discourage, rather than promote, the rite.

The Legal and Social Stakes

Donya's comments are particularly jarring given her mandate as a Woman Representative—a position constitutionally designed to champion the rights and welfare of women and girls. FGM is not merely a cultural debate in Kenya; it is a serious crime.

• The Law: Under the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011), aiding, abetting, or procuring FGM attracts a prison term of not less than three years and a fine of not less than KES 200,000.
• The Impact: The practice has been linked to severe health complications, including hemorrhage, infection, and complications during childbirth, often forcing girls to drop out of school.
• The Trend: While national prevalence has dropped, 'medicalized FGM' and secret ceremonies remain rampant in specific hotspots, including parts of Kisii and Nyamira.

While some observers suggest the MP's comments may have been made in jest, the backlash underscores a zero-tolerance atmosphere for leaders making light of gender-based violence.

As the December holidays begin, activists and government agencies are on high alert. Jalang'o's swift rebuttal serves as a reminder that the fight against FGM requires vocal opposition from all sectors of leadership, regardless of political affiliation.