In a strong and unified response to the alarming rise in femicide and gender-based violence, a group of female legislators has condemned recent attacks on women and girls. Their condemnation follows a spate of killings in Rongai Sub-County, Nakuru County, where two women were tragically murdered after being raped in a maize plantation in Ol-Rongai.
The lawmakers, led by Nakuru Woman Representative Liza Chelule, voiced their outrage and called for immediate action from security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous crimes are brought to justice. Chelule, addressing a gathering during the distribution of empowerment equipment to women’s groups under the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), expressed deep concern over the recent atrocities and questioned why such violence against women and girls continues to occur.
Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina echoed Chelule’s sentiments, strongly denouncing the murders and emphasizing the need for effective legal measures to combat gender-based violence. Maina highlighted the Rongai incident as a grim example of the broader issue, urging both local and national authorities to prioritize the safety of women and girls and to hold those responsible accountable.
Kajiado Woman Representative Leah Sankaire also weighed in, stressing the importance of protecting the girl child from harmful cultural practices. Sankaire specifically pointed to female genital mutilation (FGM) as a significant barrier to the well-being and advancement of girls in some communities. She called for a concerted effort by local administrators, including chiefs, and civil society organizations to address FGM and early marriages, which continue to undermine the rights and opportunities of young girls.
In addition to addressing cultural practices, Sankaire emphasized the legal ramifications for those who defile young girls, warning that justice will prevail for those who commit such crimes. Her call to action was aimed at ensuring that societal norms evolve to better protect and support the female population.
Kiambu Woman Representative Ann wa Muratha joined her colleagues in demanding that the Ministry of Interior take decisive action against the perpetrators of gender-based violence. Muratha’s appeal underscores the need for the Ministry to strengthen its efforts in tackling these crimes and to ensure that justice is served for victims.
The female leaders also addressed an ongoing issue regarding the funding allocated to women representatives through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF). They pointed out that the current allocation of Ksh 7 million for each woman representative is inadequate compared to the Ksh 137 million allotted to national assembly legislators. The lawmakers argued that the disparity in funding limits their ability to effectively manage their constituencies and support initiatives aimed at empowering women and youth.
The call for increased funding reflects a broader concern about the resources available to women legislators to address issues of gender-based violence and promote women’s empowerment. The legislators believe that a more equitable allocation of funds is essential for enabling them to fulfill their roles and drive positive change in their communities.
In conclusion, the recent surge in femicide and gender-based violence has galvanized a group of female legislators to demand urgent action from both government and society. Their calls for justice, protection of women and girls, and increased funding highlight the critical need for a comprehensive approach to addressing these pressing issues. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the leadership of these women representatives underscores the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the rights and safety of all individuals, particularly those most vulnerable to violence and exploitation.
