Police fire tear gas at women's march in Kenya

 

On November 25, 2024, Kenyan police deployed tear gas to disperse protesters participating in a women’s march in Nairobi. The march was organized to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and aimed to highlight the alarming increase in gender-based violence and femicide in the country. Participants condemned the government for failing to address systemic issues that put women at risk, especially in light of reports that 97 women had been killed in suspected femicides over a three-month period.

The Protest and Its Objectives

Hundreds of activists, human rights defenders, and citizens gathered in Nairobi for the march, part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. Demonstrators carried placards and banners with messages such as “Justice for Women” and “End Femicide Now,” demanding accountability from the government and law enforcement agencies. They also sought greater protection for survivors of gender-based violence and more robust enforcement of laws addressing such crimes.

Police Response

The march, which began peacefully, encountered resistance from police forces. Officers used tear gas to break up the gathering, citing concerns about disruptions to public order. However, activists criticized the use of force as excessive and an attempt to suppress legitimate expressions of dissent. Several protesters were injured during the chaos, and the incident drew widespread condemnation from human rights organizations.

Government's Role and Criticism

The incident highlighted contradictions within the Kenyan government. While President William Ruto had recently condemned femicide and called for collective action against gender-based violence, activists argued that his administration had failed to implement meaningful changes. Protesters accused the government of prioritizing rhetoric over substantive action, particularly in prosecuting offenders and protecting survivors.

Broader Context: Violence Against Women in Kenya

Kenya has seen a surge in reported cases of femicide and gender-based violence in recent years. Factors contributing to this include:

Cultural and Social Norms: Deeply ingrained patriarchal attitudes often normalize violence against women.

Weak Legal Enforcement: Perpetrators frequently evade justice due to systemic corruption and inefficiencies in law enforcement.

Economic Barriers: Many survivors lack the financial means to leave abusive situations or seek legal redress.

Global and Local Reactions

The tear gas incident drew condemnation from international human rights organizations and local civil society groups. Critics viewed it as a violation of the right to peaceful assembly and a reflection of the state’s failure to prioritize gender justice. UN representatives and other global stakeholders urged Kenya to protect the rights of activists and implement concrete measures to combat violence against women.

Implications and Call to Action

The tear gas incident has amplified calls for systemic reforms, including:

1. Enhanced Legal Protections: Strengthening laws against gender-based violence and ensuring their enforcement.

2. Improved Support Systems: Increasing funding for shelters, counseling, and legal aid for survivors.

3. Police Accountability: Ensuring law enforcement respects the rights of protesters and victims.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities to challenge harmful gender norms and promote equality.

The tear gas deployment at the women’s march underscores the urgent need for the Kenyan government to reconcile its promises with action and foster an environment where women can demand justice without fear of reprisal.