Human rights groups want GBV declared national crisis

Human rights bodies have issued an ultimatum of 40 days to the government to address the rising number of femicide cases and other cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), failure to which they will embark on street protests.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the organisations have provided a list of demands to the government for immediate attention, among them a declaration of GBV, including femicide, as a national crisis.

They also want the establishment and operationalisation of a GBV fund; accountability from the National Police Service (NPS); launch of a national campaign on GBV and femicide; as well as the setting up of a rapid response and victim support system.

This is a renewed call after the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) also raised an alarm on the same earlier on May 13, 2026.

The society noted that these occurrences have threatened the lives, dignity, safety and constitutional rights of women and girls across the country.

According to the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kenya, 35 out of 70 weekly cases reported in 2026 are directly linked to physical and sexual gender-based violence by intimate partners.

The latest case to be highlighted is that of gospel musician Rachel Wandeto, who was attacked, doused with petrol and set on fire.

The incident later led to her death while undergoing treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.

“If these demands are not met, it will demonstrate a lack of commitment and accountability on the part of duty bearers,” read part of the statement.

The organisations have threatened to organize peaceful protests across the country led by grassroots players and also file strategic interest litigation if their demands are not met.

Further, they have called on all stakeholders to take immediate, coordinated and measurable action to prevent more loss of life.