In a bid to deter sexual harassment, an Egyptian parliamentary committee has approved a much-needed draft bill to toughen the laws on sexual harassment offenders – who may now face a one-year jail term and up to 10,000 LE in fines. According to Al Ahram, Suzy Nashed, a committee member, submitted the amendments to increase the jail term from six months to one year, and increase the fines by up to 10,000 LE. If the attacker were to repeat the offence, the penalties would be doubled. The bill has defined harassment as verbal or non-verbal act, carried out in private or public areas, that convey sexual or pornographic innuendo. A study released in 2013 by the United Nations found that 99.3% of women surveyed in Egypt were victims of sexual harassment – a behaviour that was not criminalised until 2014. Also agreed upon was the enforcement of tougher penalties on…

By: Anita Chepkoech and Angela Oketch More Kenyan women are throwing their hats in the ring for political positions in the western and southern parts of the country, in what is expected to be one of the most competitive elections in recent history. The women aspirants, who are mainly professionals, say they are ready to brave the high-octane political season often characterized by hooliganism and mudslinging. According to those who spoke to the Nation, they will be banking on their track records, professionalism and strong leadership skills to trounce their opponents. Those running for governorship include political activist Atieno Otieno (Kisumu), Kakamega businesswoman Mabel Muruli, and Ms. Anne Anyanga (Migori). Other women running for the top county seats include, Sotik MP Joyce Laboso (Bomet) and Kisumu Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga. Dr. Rose Kisia, the Kisumu County Executive for Tourism, will lock horns with Nyando MP Fred Outa in the fight…