More Leaders Should Speak Up and Confront Femicide

Harriet Afandi

In a nation where only a fraction of our politicians, less than 35%, actively confront the pervasive issue of violence, it’s crucial to remind those in power that their duty extends beyond election campaigns.

The recent heckling of Nairobi Senator Esther Passaris during the #TotalShutDownKE movement shed light on the reluctance of many politicians to address violence unless prompted by public outcry. Change Organization campaigns led by activists and advocate groups have called upon decision-makers, comprising 90% of our political leaders in the Senate and Parliament, yet their appeals often fall on deaf ears.

The disturbing reality is that activists, the very individuals advocating for change, are paying the ultimate price, with some losing their lives in the pursuit of addressing human rights violations perpetrated by elected leaders.

For a nation to progress, it is imperative that those in power proactively address the challenges faced by the public. The sacrifice of countless protestors, particularly the youth in regions like Nyanza and Rift Valley during past Post Election Violence incidents (2007/13/17), should not be in vain.

The silence surrounding these issues is not solely the responsibility of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), or individual activists. Our elected leaders must step forward and take immediate action within their respective legislative bodies when violence occurs in their constituencies. They need to be at the forefront, championing the cause to eliminate any form of human rights violations.

The time has come for our leaders, be they Members of Parliament, Senators, MCAs, or Governors, to prioritize addressing violence in their communities. By doing so, they not only fulfill their duty to the citizens who entrusted them with power but also contribute to the eradication of human rights violations, ensuring a safer and more just society for all.

Harriet Afandi is a Nguvu Change Leader, currently championing two online advocacy campaigns titled Justice for Judy Wambui and The Women of Kiambu County and Accelerate OBV Legislation in Kenya