NGEC CONDEMNS THE BARBARIC ASSAULT ON A WIDOW IN NYAMIRA COUNTY

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) strongly condemns the horrific assault of a grieving widow in Nyabisimba, Nyamira County. This vile act, captured in viral footage, exposes the deep-rooted gender-based violence disguised as culture, violating women's fundamental rights and dignity. Such abuse is an outright affront to Article 27 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which guarantees equality and freedom from discrimination. 

The widow, mourning her former husband, was brutally attacked by in-laws seeking to force her into cultural burial rites against her will. This egregious violation of human rights constitutes gender-based violence, assault, and coercion—criminal acts punishable under Kenyan law. We commend the National Police Service for swiftly arresting key perpetrators and urge a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served. 

Harmful cultural practices like this persist due to fear of stigmatization and ostracization. These oppressive traditions blatantly contravene the Constitution and international human rights standards, which mandate gender equality and non-discrimination. No culture or tradition should override an individual’s dignity, autonomy, and human rights. 

The Commission calls on communities to abandon retrogressive customs and seek lawful and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms like mediation and arbitration when aggrieved. We stand in solidarity with the victim and reaffirm our commitment to ending gender-based violence and cultural injustices. 

SIGNED 

HON. REHEMA JALDESA 

CHAIRPERSON 

Hon Rehema Jaldesa- Chairperson, NGEC