Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has stressed the importance of holding perpetrators of femicide accountable for their actions and ensuring that criminal justice actors carry out their duties impartially.
He also warned against blaming the victims of gender-based violence (GBV), asserting that the justice system should not allow perpetrators to portray themselves as victims.
“They must be held accountable for their actions, and the Criminal Justice system must fulfill its duties without bias. This is non-negotiable,” warned Mudavadi.
According to the 2023 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, over 11 million women—20% of the population—have experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.
Of these, 2.8 million women experienced violence in the past year alone.
Mudavadi pointed out that these figures represent only reported cases, and the actual number of GBV incidents is likely much higher due to underreporting, stigma, and fear of retaliation.
He urged all victims to come forward and report incidents, highlighting the provisions of the Victim Protection Act, which allows for the use of witness protection boxes in court and the concealment of the identities of vulnerable witnesses, such as children and sexual violence victims.
The Act also offers the option to place witnesses under the protection of the Witness Protection Agency if they face threats or intimidation.
Women are the major victims of GBV.
Mudavadi made these remarks during the launch of the “Safe Homes, Safe Spaces” initiative at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega County.
The initiative is a bold campaign aimed at raising awareness nationwide and inspiring Kenyans to adopt non-violent conflict resolution methods in their daily lives.
President William Ruto also called for collective action, urging all citizens to work together to create safer homes and communities. “Let’s unite in the fight against GBV and ensure our homes become the safe havens they are meant to be,” he said.
