The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kenya has condemned the violence and human rights abuses, especially against women, witnessed during recent youth-led protests. They are now calling for urgent action to restore accountability, justice, and constitutional order.
Speaking during a press conference in Nairobi, FIDA Kenya Chairperson Christine Kungu decried the deaths, injuries, and violations that occurred during the protest in the past month.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the media, and civil society, at least 37 people have died during the demonstrations, including 12-year-old Bridget Wainaina, who was killed by a stray bullet inside her home
‘’No citizen should pay for a peaceful protest with their blood. No parent should have to bury a child for standing up for their future,” said Kungu
She condemned the violent crackdown on largely peaceful protests, which are constitutionally protected under Article 37 of Kenya’s Constitution.
FIDA Board Secretary Angela Mwadumbu added that attacks had gone beyond the streets, citing disturbing footage of gang-like groups assaulting civilians in the presence of police officers, including a violent disruption of a Kenya Human Rights Commission press conference on July 6.
‘’We are deeply alarmed by attacks on hospitals such as Kitengela Sub-County Hospital, which endangered the lives of women, children, and medical staff,” she said.
Also accounts of sexual violence against women protestors were recorded, including gang rape and harassment, reportedly used as tools of intimidation. FIDA welcomed the UN Human Rights Office’s call for an independent probe, reiterating that such violations must never be normalized.
Executive Director Anne Ireri outlined a six-point demand list, including immediate action from the Inspector General of Police, prosecution of officers involved in abuses, an independent investigation into police brutality and sexual violence, protection for survivors, and enhanced security in health facilities during protests.
FIDA also urged President William Ruto to lead a national healing process and acknowledge the pain of the people
‘’The growing rift between citizens and law enforcement threatens the very fabric of our democracy,” said Ireri
