FIDA Kenya Issues 30-Day Ultimatum To Ruto Over Femicide Crisis

The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in Kenya has issued a 30-day ultimatum to President William Ruto, demanding that femicide be declared a national crisis, citing rising gender-based violence against women as a dire threat requiring urgent government intervention. The organization condemned what it described as “state laxity” in addressing femicide, accusing authorities of “aiding and abetting” such crimes through inaction.

In a statement on Tuesday, FIDA outlined five urgent appeals to President Ruto, including a formal national address on femicide to affirm the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and rights of women and girls. The organization also called for femicide to be classified as a national disaster and requested an immediate update from the National Police Service on current femicide investigations.

FIDA emphasized the case of Collins Jumaisi, a suspect in the infamous Kware dumpsite murders, who remains at large following an escape from police custody. They argued that delays in prosecution compound the trauma experienced by victims’ families. “This is a necessary step in bringing healing to the families who are extremely traumatised by the loss of their loved ones,” FIDA added.

Additional demands include the immediate appointment of a Gender Cabinet Secretary to lead a coordinated response to gender-based violence, including awareness campaigns targeting electronically facilitated gender-based violence (EFGBV). FIDA noted that the Cabinet Secretary role is crucial in orchestrating cross-sectoral efforts to address femicide.

With the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence approaching, FIDA urged the government to take actionable steps aligned with this year’s theme, “UNITE! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls.” FIDA further advocated for legislative reforms to classify femicide as a specific crime under the Penal Code, which they believe would bolster the legal framework surrounding gender-based violence.

Highlighting recent cases, including the murder of 23-year-old Catholic nun Yvonne Jirangwa, FIDA expressed deep concern over the rising femicide cases. They noted the failure of authorities to locate Jumaisi and called for a comprehensive report from the National Police Service regarding his escape and plans for his re-arrest.

Since January 2024, FIDA has documented at least 30 femicide cases linked to domestic violence, underscoring that these incidents violate constitutional rights, including the right to life and security. FIDA confirmed they are currently offering psychosocial support and legal aid to affected families and vowed to mobilize nationwide protests should no concrete action be taken within 30 days. “Women in Kenya deserve the right to live without fear of violence,” FIDA stated.