Green Congress leader calls for fast-tracking of Widowed Persons Protection Bill

Green Congress of Kenya party leader Hillary Alila has urged Parliament to fast-track the enactment of the Widowed Persons Protection Bill, 2026, saying stronger legal safeguards are needed to protect widows from discrimination, exploitation and economic hardship.

Speaking during a forum to mark International Widows' Day, Alila said widows across the country continue to face numerous social and economic challenges despite constitutional guarantees on equality and human rights.

"As a party we continue to provide a shoulder for the many widows to lean on and we want politicians both in and out of government to help with relevant laws that will ameliorate the suffering that widows have to endure after the death of their husbands," he said.

Alila noted that many widows lose inheritance rights, are evicted from their homes, experience gender-based violence and are excluded from family and community decision-making.

He said Parliament should enact laws that specifically protect widows from exploitation while guaranteeing equal rights to property ownership, inheritance and access to justice.

He also called on the government to expand access to legal services and establish safe reporting mechanisms to enable widows to report abuse without fear of intimidation.

“ I also want to appeal to county governments, religious organizations and civil society groups to work together in supporting widows through economic empowerment programmes, access to healthcare, education, and financial inclusion initiatives, “ he added.

According to Alila, protecting widows is essential to advancing gender equality, reducing poverty and strengthening families.

He urged lawmakers across the political divide to prioritise legislation addressing the unique challenges faced by widows, saying no woman should lose her dignity, property or livelihood after losing a spouse.

He added that the Green Congress of Kenya remains committed to advocating for policies that protect vulnerable groups, including widows, children, persons with disabilities and older persons.

The Widowed Persons Protection Bill, 2026, sponsored by Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, seeks to ensure that the loss of a spouse does not also result in the loss of one's home, property, livelihood or dignity.