The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has condemned the viral video showing elderly woman being set on fire to rid her of evil spirits by members of a church in Kapkwen Bomet. The incident happened on February 22.
In a statement on Wednesday, FIDA condemned the action and requested the County Government of Bomet to put in place measures to safeguard women against all forms of violence.
FIDA-Kenya Chairperson Christine Kungu stated that Bomet Police Commander, Edward Imbwaga, assured the public that the church was shut down following the incident.
Kungu noted that the police are actively pursuing the suspect including the pastor of the church.
“We hope the suspects will be arrested and charged in court within the shortest time possible," Kungu said.
According to FIDA-Kenya, the police reported that the church is responsible for canning and inflicting serious injuries on two other women in similar attempts to ‘exorcise evil spirits.’
Kung, therefore, called upon the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Judiciary to ensure swift prosecution of such crimes to deter future occurrences.
FIDA asked the religious leaders to condemn these religious extremist teachings, for instance, cults which are becoming common.
The communities are asked to report any suspicious teaching to the police or relevant authorities.
“There is a worrying trend in the country of increasing violence against women if recent trends are anything to go by.”
“For instance, the Shakohola Massacre, which led to the death of over 400 innocent people in Kilifi County, is yet to be concluded despite the apprehension of the church leaders alleged to be behind the heinous crime,” Kungu added.
Kungu asked Parliament to prioritize passing the laws to regulate religious organizations and their agents’ conduct.
