Protester John faces violence as Kenya's parliament burns

In Kenya, a surge of protests against gender-based violence and femicide erupted amidst rising public anger and calls for accountability from law enforcement. The violence peaked on December 10, 2024, when police clashed with hundreds of demonstrators in Nairobi. Protesters gathered in a public park chanting 'Stop femicide,' demanding action in response to alarming statistics indicating over 90 women had been murdered by their partners since August. Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, police employed tear gas and physically assaulted demonstrators, leading to injuries and several arrests. Activist Mwikali Mueni, who sustained a neck injury during the conflict, criticized the government's inaction toward violent policing, urging immediate accountability for the police brutality. The demonstrations are part of a growing movement responding to Kenya's troubling epidemic of gender-based violence, which many attribute to societal norms and systemic failures in protecting women's rights. Civil society organizations highlight that many victims of femicide remain uncounted, creating an environment where brutality towards women persists without consequence. Activists raised concerns about law enforcement’s role in suppressing protests while failing to address the femicide crisis. An alarming case involved a suspect, allegedly responsible for the murder of 42 women, escaping from police custody, further eroding public trust in the security forces. Observers have noted that the crackdown on protesters undermines democratic freedoms and could lead to increased resentment among citizens, particularly the youth, who see social conditions worsening without meaningful political response. In response to international scrutiny, President Ruto announced a commitment of over $700,000 to combat femicide during a meeting with female leaders. This funding represents an attempt to address women's rights issues and could signal a shift in government policy. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, particularly in light of persistent reports of police violence against peaceful protesters. Activists and citizens alike are left questioning the sincerity of the government's commitment to change and the real impact on reducing gender-based violence in the long term.