Kenyan police fired teargas and arrested at least three individuals on Tuesday as hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets to protest a surge in femicides.
Human rights activists confirmed the incidents, which unfolded in the capital Nairobi and other cities, including Mombasa and Lodwar.
In Nairobi, several hundred protesters—mainly women—marched peacefully, chanting “Stop killing women!” and blowing whistles. However, police officers repeatedly dispersed the crowds with teargas fired from moving vehicles, forcing demonstrators to regroup. It was unclear why the police intervened, as the protests were nonviolent. Efforts to obtain a comment from the national police spokesperson were unsuccessful.
Among those arrested was Irungu Houghton, the executive director of Amnesty International Kenya. In a joint statement, Amnesty International and three other organisations condemned the police’s actions, describing the protests as a courageous stand against the targeted killings of women.
“This protest was a courageous stand against the killing of women, a demand for urgency in investigating these murders and a call for perpetrators to be held accountable,” the statement said.
“The violent response by police … is a direct attack on Kenya’s democratic principles and the human rights of its citizens.”
The National Police Service reported that at least 97 women were killed in femicides between August and October this year, underscoring the growing threat to women in Kenya. By comparison, figures from the Africa Data Hub collective recorded at least 75 femicides in 2022 and 46 in 2021, suggesting an alarming rise in cases.
Experts cite patriarchal norms and inadequate legal protections as major contributors to the country’s high levels of gender-based violence. Kenyan police have also faced criticism for their handling of anti-government protests earlier this year, during which at least 60 people were killed. While authorities have largely defended their actions, investigations into specific allegations of police misconduct are ongoing.
The protesters’ message was clear: immediate action is needed to combat femicides and ensure justice for victims, highlighting a growing demand for accountability and stronger protections for women in Kenya.
Melissa Enoch
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