The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has stepped in to push for justice for woman who was captured on video being brutally assaulted by her brothers.
In a statement, KEWOPA revealed that it is actively involved in the case and that it will work with relevant security agencies to ensure thorough investigations into the matter.
“The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association is deeply disturbed by a viral video showing a woman from Mbereke Dapashi in Nkareta Ward, Narok County, being assaulted by her brothers over what is alleged to be a case of forced marriage,” KEWOPA noted.
“KEWOPA is actively involved with the case and will work with relevant security agencies to ensure thorough investigations are conducted and justice is delivered promptly,” it added.
While condemning the incident, the association urged authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of the assault do not go unpunished.
“The case must send a clear message that perpetrators of violence, regardless of their relation to the victim or claims of culture and tradition, will face the full force of the law,” KEWOPA asserted.
In the video, the woman can be seen getting repeatedly whipped by four men believed to be her brothers, in what is said to be a case of forced marriage.
In the clip that sparked outrage online, the woman’s brothers can be seen dragging her on the ground before mercilessly caning her as she wails helplessly.
According to unconfirmed reports, she decided to settle down with a different man, leaving the brothers disappointed and resorting to assault as a form of punishment.
Reports also claimed that the man whose proposal was turned down by the victim had already paid dowry in preparation for an engagement ceremony.
The incident drew harsh criticism from the public, including political leaders and other officials, who called on the National Police Service to investigate and take action against the men.
As a result, police investigations commenced, and they later announced that a man had been arrested in connection with the assault. According to police, he was one of four men seen in a viral video flogging a helpless woman.
"An investigation was commenced and a manhunt for the perpetrators was mounted, leading to a successful arrest of one suspect, who has been placed in custody pending arraignment in court."
"Police are still in hot pursuit of the remaining perpetrators with the objective of apprehending them to face judges," the National Police Service (NPS) stated.
The police also revealed that the woman was rescued and taken to hospital for treatment after the incident.
