KEWOSA condemns sexual violence against women during June 25th protests

 26th June 2025 

The Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA), led by Chairperson Sen. Veronica Maina, has issued a firm and emotional statement condemning the violence witnessed during the 25th June 2025 protests across the country, with a specific focus on the sexual assault of women and girls.

In the statement, KEWOSA described the events as “senseless violence” that resulted in “fatalities, grievous bodily harm, other injuries, rape and molestation of innocent women and girls.” The Association expressed deep outrage, particularly over reports that some of these incidents were being celebrated on social media.

 “We particularly decry the violence that was meted out on women and girls including acts of sexual violence which unfortunately are being celebrated by the perpetrators and other members of the public on social media,” it stated.

KEWOSA reiterated that sexual violence is a “grave violation of human rights,” and stressed that its use during protests is meant to “silence, intimidate, and prevent women and girls from exercising their fundamental right to freedom of assembly and expression.” While affirming their support for peaceful protests as provided for under Articles 33 and 37 of the Constitution, KEWOSA asked pointedly, “Why should demonstrations target the bodies of women and girls? How does the rape of women and girls assist anyone to achieve their objectives?”

The Association called on all Kenyans of goodwill to speak out and report any known perpetrators of these “heinous acts.” It urged the State Department for Gender and the National Gender and Equality Commission to provide medical and psychological support to survivors.

 Further calls were made to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations for immediate investigations and to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to ensure swift and fair prosecutions.

KEWOSA also demanded that the organizers of the demonstrations take responsibility and publicly state their position on the violence that took place.

In closing, the Association reaffirmed its solidarity with survivors and urged the public to choose peace over violence. “Violence has no place in a democratic society, as it hinders progress. Our nation’s strength lies in fostering a peaceful environment where we can all thrive.”

KEWOSA, in collaboration with FIDA-Kenya, urged victims of sexual and gender-based violence to seek help by calling the toll-free number 0800720501.