No tolerance for Gender-Based Violence, says CS Cheptumo after festival attack

Gender, Culture and Children Services Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo has condemned the assault of a young woman, identified as Bella Comedy, during the Kutit Festival at the Carnivore Grounds over the weekend.

“I have watched a deeply disturbing video of the incident. We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, any act of violence, harassment, or assault against women and girls,” said the CS.

“Such acts are not only criminal but also a direct violation of the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution. They have no place in our country. Women’s rights are human rights,” she added.

Cheptumo assured the survivor and the public that the Ministry is working closely with relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure the matter is investigated swiftly and that the perpetrators are held fully accountable under the law.

The CS further called on event organizers, venue owners, and security providers at similar events to uphold the highest standards of safety and protection for all participants, ensuring that preventive measures are robust, effective, and strictly enforced.

Cheptumo reiterated that gender-based violence remains a grave national concern and urged collective responsibility in eradicating it from society.