FIDA to President Ruto: Declare Femicide a National Crisis or Face Nationwide Picketing.

In the face of escalating violence against women, the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has called on His Excellency President William Ruto to declare femicide a national crisis, underscoring an urgent need for action as the nation’s women continue to face brutal attacks and loss of life.

On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, FIDA demanded that the President address the nation and officially declare femicide a national crisis and disaster. The organization emphasized the need for President Ruto to reassure the public that his administration is committed to protecting women and girls across Kenya.

“President Ruto must address the nation and speak to women and girls, providing a clear and unwavering commitment to their right to life, safety, and security. The President should officially declare femicide a national crisis and a disaster,” FIDA insisted.

Beyond a public statement, FIDA is also pressing for immediate action from Kenya’s law enforcement. They demand that the National Police Service issue a comprehensive update on the status of ongoing investigations within 14 days.

Additionally, FIDA is calling on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to provide a public update on the progress of investigations and prosecutions for all suspects tied to femicide cases.

Another focal point for FIDA is accountability on suspects currently at large, including Collins Jumaisi, linked to the Kware dumpsite murders, who remains free after escaping police custody.

The organization is also urging the Gender Cabinet Secretary to lead awareness initiatives addressing both traditional and emerging forms of gender-based violence, including electronically facilitated gender-based violence (EFGBV), and foster collaboration with civil society.

According to FIDA, 2024 has seen at least 30 reported cases of women killed by intimate partners, highlighting a serious and unresolved crisis. “The brutality of these murders speaks to a dangerous and unresolved national crisis,” FIDA stated.

If these demands are unmet within 30 days, FIDA has pledged to mobilize countrywide protests demanding women’s safety and justice.

“With this stance, FIDA sends a clear message: femicide must be met with decisive action, not silence. The organization’s readiness to rally nationwide protests reflects the resolve of Kenya’s women in reclaiming their right to safety and justice.”

Article by Suzy Nyongesa.