Concern has been raised over the increasing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Kericho County, with leaders warning that the situation is quickly getting out of hand.
Kericho County MP Beatrice Kemei revealed that at least 222 GBV cases have been reported in the last three months, a figure she described as alarmingly high.
“Two hundred and twenty-two cases in just three months is too high. This is a serious issue that needs urgent attention,” Kemei said.
The MP strongly condemned the killing of three women within the past week, terming the incidents unfortunate and unacceptable.
“The loss of three women in one week is heartbreaking. Such acts of violence are unacceptable and must be condemned by all,” she stated.
Kemei spoke after visiting the home of a 25-year-old woman whose husband was allegedly killed in Soin/Sigowett Sub-County, where she called for peaceful and amicable ways of resolving family disputes.
“Differences in families should be handled through dialogue and peaceful means. Violence should never be an option,” she said.
The legislator noted that most GBV victims are widows and single mothers, adding that in many cases, perpetrators are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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“Many of the victims are vulnerable women, while most of the culprits commit these acts under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” Kemei observed.
She urged couples whose marriages are no longer working to consider peaceful separation rather than resorting to violence.
“If a marriage is not working, couples should separate peacefully instead of choosing violence that leads to loss of life,” she advised.
She also called on the Judiciary to fast-track GBV cases to ensure victims get justice, warning that women are increasingly becoming targets of attacks.
“GBV cases must be handled with urgency. Women are now living in fear, and justice must be served without delay,” she said.
MP Kemei appealed to the community, religious leaders, and government agencies to work together to curb rising cases and protect vulnerable members of society.
By Kimutai Langat
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