Women for Matiang’i condemn sexual violence during protests

The organisation urged all political leaders, civil society actors, and Kenyan citizens to unite in condemning sexual violence.

by BOSCO MARITA

News27 June 2025 - 13:00

In Summary

The organization confirmed that at least one rape case was reported in Nairobi’s Central Business District, alongside multiple reports of molestation and abuse in counties where the protests occurred.
Demonstrations were held in over 23 counties nationwide, resulting in at least eight deaths and more than 400 injuries, 83 of them critical.

*Juliet Nyabuto, Chairperson, Women for Matiang’i. [PHOTO: FILE]*

Women for Matiang’i has strongly condemned the sexual violence committed against women and girls during the June 25 maandamano protests, calling the attacks criminal and a grave violation of human dignity and constitutional rights.

The organisation. led by its chair Juliet Nyabuto, confirmed that at least one rape case was reported in Nairobi’s Central Business District, alongside multiple reports of molestation and abuse in counties where the protests occurred.

“The rape and assault of women during national protests is a national shame. We will not mince our words. These were not random acts of violence; these were targeted attacks meant to silence and terrorise women. As Women for Matiang’i, we demand swift and transparent investigations, the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators, and government-backed support for every survivor. This country cannot claim to be democratic while women are being assaulted in public spaces," Juliet said.

Demonstrations were held in over 23 counties nationwide, resulting in at least eight deaths and more than 400 injuries, 83 of them critical.

Verified accounts from the Kenya Women Senators Association, civil society groups, and independent human rights observers confirm widespread incidents of sexual assault and harassment targeting female demonstrators.

“These acts are not only criminal; they are an affront to human dignity and a direct violation of constitutional rights,” the group said in a statement issued Thursday.

Women for Matiang’i has issued a list of demands for urgent government action. These include full investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), immediate arrests and prosecution of perpetrators — including any law enforcement officers implicated — and comprehensive support services for survivors.

The group also called for medical care, trauma counseling, legal aid, and a public report detailing steps taken by both national and county governments to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.

“Sexual violence is a weapon used to intimidate, silence, and traumatize. Women for Matiang’i will not stand by as women are violated under the guise of civic unrest,” the statement added.

The organisation urged all political leaders, civil society actors, and Kenyan citizens to unite in condemning sexual violence.

“No woman should ever fear being attacked for simply exercising her democratic rights,” the group concluded.