Women Leaders Demand Action Against Rising Misogyny and Harassment in Kenya
Women leaders and students present a memorandum demanding urgent action against misogyny, harassment and gender based violence targeting women and girls in Kenya.
A section of women leaders, students and political activists has presented a memorandum to the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Gender and Affirmative Action demanding urgent government intervention over rising cases of misogyny, harassment and public humiliation targeting women and girls in Kenya.
Speaking during the presentation of the memorandum, the leaders raised concern over what they described as increasing attacks against women leaders through sexist remarks, online abuse and degrading conduct by some public figures. They warned that the trend continues to create a hostile environment for women in leadership, politics, schools and workplaces.
The group said the growing cases of gender based violence, femicide and political intimidation against women show that the country is facing a serious crisis that requires immediate action from both the government and oversight institutions.
The leaders particularly condemned recent remarks allegedly made by Karen Nyamu, saying the comments raised serious concerns over the sexualisation of a minor and failed to uphold the dignity and responsibility expected from public office holders.
According to the leaders, public figures should act as role models and protect the rights and welfare of women and children instead of contributing to harmful narratives that expose them to ridicule and abuse.
They accused government institutions of remaining silent despite the increasing cases of online harassment, violence against women and discriminatory remarks targeting female leaders and young girls across the country.
Among the key demands listed in the memorandum were public condemnation of sexist conduct against women, accountability for public officials who violate ethical standards and immediate implementation of anti bullying and sexual harassment policies in all public institutions.
The group also called for the establishment and enforcement of safeguarding policies aimed at protecting women and children from abuse, exploitation and intimidation in both public and private spaces.
In addition, the leaders demanded a public apology from William Ruto over what they termed as failure by the government to adequately protect women and girls from rising cases of violence and harassment.
The speakers further linked the issue to the ongoing visit by António Guterres, urging the United Nations to push Kenya to fully uphold international conventions and agreements protecting women’s rights and promoting gender equality.
Student leaders from the University of Nairobi also joined the calls for action, saying women in leadership continue to face humiliation, disrespect and harassment both in politics and within learning institutions.
Several speakers demanded disciplinary action and resignation of Senator Karen Nyamu, accusing her of embarrassing women leaders and undermining efforts aimed at promoting respect and dignity for women in the country.
The leaders urged political parties, independent commissions and oversight institutions to strengthen vetting processes for leaders and take firm action against conduct that undermines the dignity, safety and welfare of women and children in Kenya.
