Women leaders from all over Kenya have strongly condemned the violence that happened during the statewide rallies on June 25. They are upset about the deaths, injuries, and horrible sexual violence against women and girls.
Under the Auspices of Kenya Women Senator Association, in a statement issued on Wednesday, the women called the events a “senseless wave of violence” that included rape, molestation, and targeted attacks on businesses, government facilities, and public infrastructure.
They singled out the sexual violence meted out on women and girls, describing it as a gross human rights violation that continues to be glorified by perpetrators and sections of the public on social media.
“Sexual violence, in any form, is a grave violation of human rights,” the statement read. “When it occurs during protests, it not only inflicts deep trauma but also silences and intimidates women, robbing them of their right to peaceful assembly and expression.”While reaffirming their support for the freedoms enshrined in Articles 33 and 37 of Kenya’s Constitution — including the right to protest and freedom of expression — the women leaders questioned the targeting of female bodies during demonstrations.
“How does the rape of women and girls advance any cause?” the statement asked. “Demonstrations should never become platforms for gendered violence.”The statement, issued by the Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA) in collaboration with FIDA-Kenya, called on all Kenyans of goodwill to condemn the attacks and to report any individuals involved in sexual violence during the protests.
The leaders wanted the people who organized the protests to be held accountable and to speak out openly about the violence that happened during the protests.
“We urge everyone to speak out against these atrocities. The right to protest must never come at the cost of women’s safety and dignity,” the statement added.Expressing solidarity with all survivors, the women reaffirmed their commitment to building a society in which women and girls can participate fully and safely in public life, without fear of violence.
“As women leaders, we appeal to the public to choose peace over violence. Our nation’s strength lies in a peaceful and inclusive democracy. Violence has no place in our society,” the statement concluded.KEWOSA and FIDA-Kenya are encouraging victims of sexual and gender-based violence to come forward and seek help, reiterating their support for survivors in pursuit of justice.
