Kenya women senators condemn protest sex assault claims

Kenya Women Senators Association has condemned alleged acts of sexual violence against women and girls during the Wednesday, June 25 protests and demanded urgent investigations, accountability and support for survivors.

The group of legislators raised alarm over reports of rape and molestation during the countrywide demonstrations, describing the incidents as grave violations of human rights that cannot be ignored.

“We condemn, in the strongest terms, the senseless violence that led to deaths, injuries and alleged sexual assault of women and girls,” said Senator Veronica Maina, who chairs the association.

Maina argued that the attacks were not isolated incidents but deliberate acts intended to intimidate and silence women from participating in protests.

“These actions serve to punish women for speaking out. They’re meant to scare us back into silence,” she noted.

The association expressed concern over social media posts allegedly glorifying the violence, warning that such responses normalise abuse and shield perpetrators.

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“It is shocking that some members of the public are celebrating these crimes. This culture of impunity must stop,” observed Maina.

The senators urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to launch immediate probes and called on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to ensure suspects face justice.

They also pushed for the State Department for Gender and the National Gender and Equality Commission to extend full medical and psychosocial support to victims.

“We are calling on all people of goodwill to speak out against these atrocities,” Maina explained, adding, “The right to protest must not come at the cost of women’s safety and dignity.”

The senators further asked protest organisers to make public their position on the alleged acts and take responsibility where necessary.

“We will not accept a society where women’s bodies are used to settle political scores,” said Maina, noting,  “Violence is not a path to justice.”

She said women leaders stand in solidarity with survivors and will continue fighting for a public space that is safe for all.