Hundreds of protesters marching in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, were met with teargas and arrests as they demanded an end to gender-based violence and femicide. The protesters, mostly women, blew whistles and chanted “stop killing women” and “shame on you” as they marched towards parliament.
Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, police repeatedly dispersed the crowds, arresting at least three people, including Irungu Houghton, executive director of Amnesty International Kenya. The protests also took place in Mombasa and Lodwar, with videos shared on social media.
Activist Mwikali Mueni suffered a neck injury at the hands of police officers. “It is very sad that I was injured while championing for women not to be injured or killed,” she said, calling on the president to take action against the officers responsible.
Kenya has seen a surge in femicide cases, with 97 women killed since August, most by their male partners. President William Ruto committed $700,000 to a campaign to end femicide last month, but activists say more needs to be done.
Amnesty International and the Law Society of Kenya condemned the police actions, saying they sent a “chilling message” to peaceful protesters. “The violent response by police, including the arrest of these peaceful protesters, is a direct attack on Kenya’s democratic principles and the human rights of its citizens,” they said.
