Kitui leaders decry leniency towards GBV perpetrators

They decried a conspiracy of silence among victims and their families, urging parents not to hide abuse.

by MUSEMBI NZENGU

Eastern12 December 2025 - 05:24

In Summary

Gender, Culture and Social Services chief officer Esther Mutemi and Kanziku assistant county commissioner Mercy Mwalegha said offenders leave lifelong emotional and physical scars on victims and must face the law.
They spoke at Kyoani Resource Centre in Ikutha subcounty during an event to mark the end of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, coinciding with International Human Rights Day.

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A Kitui chief officer and an assistant county commissioner have condemned what they described as undue leniency towards perpetrators of gender-based violence (GBV) in the community.

Gender, Culture and Social Services chief officer Esther Mutemi and Kanziku assistant county commissioner Mercy Mwalegha said offenders leave lifelong emotional and physical scars on victims and must face the law.

They spoke at Kyoani Resource Centre in Ikutha subcounty during an event to mark the end of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, coinciding with International Human Rights Day.

Participants marched through Ikutha market carrying banners and placards calling for collective action to curb GBV.

Mutemi decried a “conspiracy of silence” among victims and their families, urging parents not to hide abuse, even if the perpetrator is a family member. She stressed that silence exacerbates trauma, often leaving girls to suffer in silence.

The chief officer highlighted county efforts to reduce GBV, including deploying gender champions at village level and constructing a GBV rescue centre in Ikutha, set to become operational soon.

Mwalegha condemned informal “kangaroo courts” led by elders, warning that out-of-court settlements, such as cash or livestock compensation, do not address the trauma victims endure.

She urged guardians to ensure children’s safety and speak out against abuse.

Ikutha subcounty police commander Raphael Mutiso noted an increase in GBV cases, including domestic homicides and sexual assaults.

He confirmed that despite some relatives attempting out-of-court settlements, authorities have ensured cases proceed to court to deliver justice.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

The Kitui GBV advocacy event underscores persistent gaps in addressing gender-based violence despite ongoing awareness campaigns. Leaders like Esther Mutemi and Mercy Mwalegha highlighted systemic issues, including the “conspiracy of silence” among victims and reliance on informal justice systems that trivialise trauma. Their emphasis on legal accountability, coupled with initiatives such as gender champions and a dedicated rescue centre, reflects a strategic shift from symbolic activism to concrete interventions. Rising cases, as noted by police, indicate that awareness alone is insufficient; sustained enforcement, community engagement and accessible support structures are crucial. The challenge lies in transforming cultural norms while ensuring justice and protection for survivors.