Women of Kenya call for peace and sobriety amid mass action threats
Women of Kenya have raised their voice concerning the unrest the country has witnessed following the demonstrations organised by Azimio.
The women under the auspices of Africa Women Leaders Network-Kenya noted that women bear the brunt of mass action the most, hence urging for calm and sobriety.
In a statement, the women observed that the last couple of weeks have been very sad ones for Kenyans and even sadder for the women of Kenya.
They say actions of unrest and lawlessness by sections of the citizenry has put the country in limbo and threatened to paralyze our already fragile economy.
They continue to say that such does not augur well for a nation, as it poses serious threats to our children and to future generations.
“As the women of Kenya, we are greatly concerned and stand with our fellow mothers who are grieving as a result of the unnecessary loss of lives, injuries and loss of properties. We empathize with the families and pray for God’s comfort. This is the spirit in which we issue this statement.” Read their statement in part.
The women decried what they termed the sort of wild behaviour by some Kenyans witnessed recently and that has resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of properties. Equally disturbing, they say, is the unacceptable use of force by some sections of law enforcement agencies in their bid to quell the unrest leaving Kenyans in pain and afraid.
“Admittedly, the cost of living is high. The majority of Kenyans can barely afford necessities including food, medical services, fuel, and other needs. As a result, Kenyans are hungry and angry. We appeal for calmness and patience. After all, we are a people of faith. In time, things will get better.” The statement read.
“As women of Kenya, we wish to bring to the attention of all Kenyans that as a constitutional democracy, Kenya is a country that is governed by the rule of law. Therefore, everybody is expected to play by these rules. It is important that Kenyans give space for dialogue so that we build our economy and the nation together.”
The women leaders said while we appreciate that all Kenyans have a right to picket, demonstrate and assemble, we should always remember that our constitution provides that such actions should be carried out peaceably, and that participants should be unarmed, adding that the constitution calls for personal responsibility and the need to safeguard the rights of other people.
They observed that as it is now, the ongoing unrests are disrupting daily lives including those of school going children, businesses and offices are closing resulting to the loss of billions of shillings badly required to revamp our economy. The women of Kenya urge for calmness, dialogue and sobriety from all.
“As the women of Kenya, we commit to continue praying for peace and the prosperity of our nation and our people.” Jennifer Riria said on behalf of the women.
