In a dramatic turn of events, Kenyan women participating in a nationwide march against femicide faced tear gas and arbitrary arrests on Sunday, sparking outrage among feminist groups and activists. The African/Black Feminist Movement in Kenya condemned the government’s actions, highlighting systemic inequalities that perpetuate violence against women.
The march, which echoes the powerful anti-femicide protests of January 2024, underscores a growing wave of collective action. Feminist activists emphasized that the fight against femicide cannot be separated from broader systemic issues like economic inequalities. The repression of peaceful protests, they argue, reveals a fear of the organizing power of Kenyan women.
Feminists Respond to State Repression
In a public statement, the Feminists in Kenya collective decried the government’s response. “Tear-gassing and arresting Kenyan women is not representative of the President’s recent commitment to fight femicide,” the statement read, urging Kenyans to connect the dots between economic struggles and the violence women face.
The protesters demanded urgent government action to address femicide, citing the need for systemic reforms to create a safer and more just society. Feminist groups also pointed to parallels between the femicide protests and the #RejectFinanceBill demonstrations in June 2024, emphasizing that both movements stem from a shared frustration with inequality and oppression.
President’s Commitment Questioned
The statement reminded President William Ruto of his public promise to combat femicide in solidarity with Kenyan women. Feminists argued that the state’s actions on Sunday contradict this commitment and could deter future protests.
Kenya has witnessed a surge in femicide cases in recent years, with activists calling for increased legal protections and support systems for survivors. Sunday’s crackdown, they say, underscores the urgency of these demands.
Calls for Unity in Struggles
The Feminists in Kenya statement concluded by urging citizens to recognize the connections between economic struggles and gender-based violence. “May we recognize the parallels and the connections in our struggles as the only sure way to achieve a just and safe Kenya,” the statement read.
The incident has reignited conversations about state accountability, systemic inequality, and the resilience of Kenyan women in the fight for justice. Activists vowed to continue their efforts, with more demonstrations planned in the coming months.
