KEWOPA condemns woman’s assault at Nyamira burial
It has vowed to remain vigilant in addressing and dealing with women issues across the country
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has come out strongly to condemn an assault of a widow in Nyamira as captured by video footage recently.
Viral video recordings showed the woman in Nyabisimba, Nyamira County being dragged by her in-laws and forced to throw soil to her deceased ex-husband’s grave. This issue drew widespread rage online and the women legislators called a press conference to express anger and dismay at the occurrence.
Addressing the press at Parliament Buildings yesterday, KEWOPA chairperson Leah Sankaire said: “She was coerced into participating in burial rituals against her will and was physically attacked when she resisted. Such acts of gender-based violence rooted in harmful cultural practices, are unacceptable and must be announced in the strongest terms.”
“We commend the swift action taken by law enforcement in arresting the three suspects responsible for this heinous act. However, justice must not stop at arrests. KEWOPA urges the authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This case must serve as a clear precedent that violence against women, regardless of cultural justifications, will not be tolerated,” she added.
Sankare went further: “Furthermore, KEWOPA calls upon all stakeholders to work collaboratively in ensuring that justice is not only served but that long-term measures are put in place to prevent such incidents. Community leaders and policymakers must take proactive steps to challenge and dismantle harmful traditions that perpetuate violence against women. Survivors must be supported to receive the necessary medical, psychological and legal support to heal and rebuild their lives, while perpetrators face strict consequences for their actions.”
KEWOPA has vowed to remain vigilant in addressing and dealing with women issues across the country.
“We remain steadfast in advocating for legal reforms, stronger protection measures for women and increased community awareness to eliminate gender-based violence. We urge community leaders including cultural custodians and religious institutions to take a firm stand against these harmful cultural practices and play an active role in promoting a society where human rights which include women’s rights are upheld and safeguarded.”
Reports indicate that after the couple’s separation years ago, the woman had lost contact with her ex-husband’s family. FIDA Kenya also weighed in, labeling the incident as “heinous” and calling for a collective effort from law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and cultural elders to prevent violence against women.
The National Police Service (NPS) condemned the attack, describing it as regrettable and a violation of human dignity.
Three suspects have since been arraigned in court over the assault incident.
