The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has strongly condemned the violent attack and death of Rachel Wandeto in Kasarani, Nairobi, describing the incident as a grave violation of constitutional rights and a troubling indicator of rising insecurity faced by women in the country.
In a statement, KEWOPA said it joins the family, friends, and the nation in mourning Wandeto, whose death follows what authorities have described as a violent attack.
The association emphasized that the incident represents a direct breach of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, including the right to life, equality, human dignity, and security of the person.
Call for Protection of Women and Rule of Law
KEWOPA stated that no woman should live in fear of violence, adding that no family should be subjected to the trauma of losing a loved one under such circumstances.
The association stressed that acts of violence undermine the country’s constitutional order, which is founded on justice, human rights, and the rule of law.
The association has called on the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to urgently pursue a comprehensive, credible, and transparent investigation into the killing.
KEWOPA further demanded that all individuals involved whether directly or indirectly, be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law without delay.
Warning Against Normalising Violence
At the same time, KEWOPA urged restraint among public actors and cautioned against narratives that normalize or justify violence against citizens.
It reiterated that Kenya’s democratic framework is anchored on peaceful coexistence and the protection of fundamental rights, warning that inflammatory rhetoric risks worsening tensions.
The association also expressed concern over what it termed an emerging pattern of targeted violence and increasing intolerance in public life.
According to KEWOPA, this trend threatens democratic participation and weakens public trust in state protection mechanisms. It called for decisive enforcement of the law and accountability for perpetrators to restore public confidence.
Strengthening Protection Mechanisms
Beyond the immediate case, KEWOPA highlighted the need for stronger protection systems for women and young people, particularly those exposed to risks linked to public expression or perceived political alignment.
It urged state agencies to strengthen preventive mechanisms and ensure timely response to threats of violence.
KEWOPA extended its condolences to Wandeto’s family and called on Kenyans to stand in solidarity in demanding justice and accountability.
The association reaffirmed that violence against any citizen constitutes an attack on democracy itself and must be confronted through firm legal action and sustained institutional responsibility.
