Karua declares femicide a national governance crisis, launches #ActNowToEndGBV campaign
People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has declared the rising cases of femicide and violence against women and children a national governance crisis, accusing the State of failing in its constitutional duty to protect vulnerable citizens as she unveiled a nationwide campaign to push for urgent action.
Speaking during a press conference on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Karua said the increasing killings of women and abuse of children should no longer be treated as isolated criminal incidents or private family matters but as a national emergency requiring immediate government intervention.
“We are facing a constitutional crisis. We are facing a governance crisis. The State is failing in its most fundamental obligation of protecting the lives, dignity and security of its people,” Karua said.
Calls for action over rising violence
Karua said women, who make up more than half of Kenya’s population, continue to live in fear despite constitutional guarantees on the right to life, equality, dignity and freedom from violence.
Citing the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, she noted that nearly one in three Kenyan women aged between 15 and 49 has experienced physical violence since the age of 15, while one in eight has suffered sexual violence.
She also referenced the Nancy Baraza-led Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, which attributed the increase in femicide to weak implementation of existing laws, institutional failures and widespread impunity.
Karua maintained that Kenya has adequate legislation, including the Sexual Offences Act, the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act and the Victim Protection Act, but said poor enforcement continues to expose women and children to danger.
Launch of national campaign
Karua called on the government to immediately implement the recommendations contained in the Nancy Baraza report by publishing clear timelines, budgets and measurable targets while strengthening policing, forensic services, shelters and survivor-centred justice systems.
She further urged police, prosecutors and the Judiciary to prioritise gender-based violence cases and ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
As part of the initiative, Karua launched the #ActNowToEndGBV campaign, calling on Kenyans, religious leaders, teachers, community leaders and civil society organisations to join a nationwide movement aimed at preventing violence against women and children and restoring public confidence in the justice system.
“The time for condolences is over. The time for responsive leadership is now. The time for action is now,” she said.
