NGEC condemns assault of woman at ex-husband’s burial in Nyamira

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has condemned the assault of a woman in Nyabisimba, Nyamira County, during her ex-husband’s burial.

In a statement, NGEC Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa described the assault as a blatant violation of human rights and gender equality, adding that the act exposes deep-rooted gender-based violence disguised as culture.

The woman was reportedly assaulted by in-laws attempting to coerce her into cultural burial rites against her will.

“This egregious violation of human rights constitutes gender-based violence, assault, and coercion—criminal acts punishable under Kenyan law,” Jaldesa stated.

The Commission urged the National Police Service (NPS) to swiftly investigate the incident and ensure justice is served.

Jaldesa further decried the persistence of harmful cultural practices that subject women to violence, noting that such traditions violate Article 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality and freedom from discrimination.

“No culture or tradition should override an individual’s dignity, autonomy, and human rights,” she stated.

On Monday, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested three individuals linked to the crime.

The suspects, identified as Robert Pokea Sarudi, 43, Bismark Ondiek Sarudi, 40, and Lameck Ogindo Osoro, 27, allegedly forced the woman to participate in traditional rituals against her will and assaulted her, inflicting injuries on her body.