A major event in Kenya at the start of 2024: a large-scale demonstration shook the streets of Nairobi, the country’s capital, in response to recent cases of femicides across the country. Thousands of people dressed in black took part in this national march to denounce violence against women, marking the end of the “16 days of activism” dedicated to the fight against gender-based violence.
Unfortunately, this peaceful initiative was quickly met with a violent reaction from the police, who used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators. This brutal reaction sparked indignation and incomprehension among the participants, who were simply seeking to make their voices heard and raise awareness about the need to put an end to the femicides that have shaken the country in recent months.
One of the leading figures of this demonstration, Senator Jane Kihungi, expressed her astonishment at this unexpected police repression. She stressed the urgency of the situation and the importance of taking concrete measures to protect women and put an end to these heinous acts.
The alarming statistics revealed by the Kenyan Director of Criminal Affairs, reporting 97 women murdered in just 90 days, have deeply shocked the population. Despite these alarming figures, the authorities seem to downplay the gender issue in these cases, provoking anger and indignation among the demonstrators.
A participant, Nicole, expressed her frustration at the impunity that often benefits the perpetrators of these crimes. She stressed the crucial role that the police should play in the fight against femicides and called for firm action to put an end to this unacceptable violence.
Another protester, Winnie, points to the role of the police in this crisis, recalling the Mukuru scandal where women’s bodies were found in atrocious conditions near a police station. She highlights the authorities’ involvement in these cases and demands greater responsibility on their part to ensure women’s safety.
This poignant demonstration in Kenya highlights the urgent need to act against femicide and raise awareness about this crucial issue. It is time for society as a whole, including the authorities, to mobilize to put an end to this unbearable violence and ensure a safer and fairer future for all.