Businesswoman-cum politician Millicent Omanga has expressed concerns over the rising cases of femicide.
In a statement shared via her official X account on Sunday, November 3, 2024, Omanga made a passionate call for immediate, united action to protect women and end gender-based violence.
Omanga on women safety
The former nominated senator emphasized the pressing need for legislative reform, robust community support, and an uncompromising justice system that prioritizes women’s safety.
“The rising cases of femicide demand our attention and action. Every woman deserves to live without fear, yet so many lives are being tragically cut short. It’s time we all stand together to call for change. We need stronger laws, community support, and a justice system that truly fights for women’s safety. Let’s raise our voices,” Omanga stated.
The rising cases of femicide demand our attention and action. Every woman deserves to live without fear, yet so many lives are being tragically cut short. It’s time we all stand together to call for change.
We need stronger laws, community support, and a justice system that…— Hon Millicent Omanga (@MillicentOmanga) November 3, 2024
CJ Martha Koome’s appeal
Omanga’s appeal comes days after Chief Justice Martha Koome condemned the alarming increase in femicide cases in the country.
Koome called for urgent collective action to address the issue.
In a statement released on Thursday, October 31, 2024, the Supreme Court boss emphasized that ending violence against women requires more than legal solutions; it demands a complete shift in societal values and attitudes toward women and girls.
Koome urged Kenyans to confront and dismantle the structures that enable such violent acts to persist. She emphasized the importance of breaking the silence surrounding femicide and encouraged communities to foster environments where women feel safe, valued, and respected.
“We must commit to creating communities where women and girls feel safe, valued, and respected,” she said.
Femicide cases
There has been an increase in reported cases of femicide in Kenya, sparking public outcry and calls for immediate intervention.
Recent femicides have ignited public outrage, with multiple women found murdered in grisly incidents across the country.
Days ago, three women in Nairobi’s Eastleigh were murdered, and their bodies were dumped in separate locations.
A young woman was also recently strangled in her friend’s house in Thika.
Another case involved a Mombasa taxi driver found dead in Nakuru after going missing.
Many of these cases have been linked to close acquaintances or intimate partners, which activists argue points to deeply rooted issues of gender-based violence and inadequate legal protections for women.
