The Law Society of Kenya has raised concern over the growing number of femicide and gender-based violence cases reported across the country, describing the trend as a national crisis that requires urgent intervention.
In a written statement issued by the LSK President Charles Kanjama, the Society condemned what it termed an alarming escalation of violence targeting women and girls.
Kanjama pointed to recent cases of murder, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault that have sparked widespread public outrage and renewed calls for accountability.
Among the incidents highlighted was the killing of Alice Riang’a, a 20-year-old student at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology.
Her body was discovered in a thicket in Bondo on May 10, 2026, days after she had been reported missing. According to postmortem findings referenced in the statement, she suffered sexual assault and blunt force trauma.
The Society also referenced the deaths of Consolata Githinji in Kilimani, Nairobi, Davine Kwamboka in a suspected case of intimate partner violence, Anita in Nakuru following an alleged domestic assault, and Krystabel “Bella” Anyango, whose death reportedly followed a violent altercation linked to a troubled relationship.
According to the Society, the incidents collectively reveal a disturbing pattern of violence against women that continues to threaten constitutional rights, dignity, and personal security.
“These incidents are not isolated occurrences,” the statement read. “Behind every reported case is a life lost, a family devastated, and a society called into question.”
Calls for Immediate National Action
The LSK President criticised what he described as delayed interventions, weak investigative responses, and persistent impunity that continue to fuel the crisis.
He particularly expressed concern over the increasing brutality of attacks allegedly committed by intimate partners, spouses, acquaintances, and individuals known to victims.
Kanjama emphasised that violence against women should not be treated as a private matter, but rather as a gross violation of fundamental human rights protected under the Constitution of Kenya.
In response, the Society called on the National Government to treat femicide and gender-based violence as an urgent national emergency requiring coordinated and sustained action.
It further urged the National Police Service to conduct prompt, transparent, and victim-sensitive investigations, while calling on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Judiciary to prioritise cases involving gender-based violence.
The Society also appealed to Parliament, county governments, educational institutions, religious leaders, and communities to strengthen prevention measures, survivor support systems, and public awareness initiatives.
LSK Pushes for Accountability and Reform
The Society reiterated the need for immediate implementation of recommendations made by the National Femicide Task Force, saying deeper structural reforms are necessary to address the root causes of violence against women and girls.
Through its Gender Committee, the Society said it will continue monitoring reported cases and advocating for justice for victims and survivors. It also revealed plans to appoint advocates to watch brief in ongoing cases to ensure accountability is upheld through the legal process.
“The continued loss of women’s lives through violence cannot and must never be normalised,” Kanjama stated, reaffirming its commitment to human rights, justice, and the rule of law.
