KNCHR launches probe into killing of suspected 'witches' in Kisii

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has commenced investigations into the lynching of elderly persons - mostly women - suspected of being witches in Kisii county.

KNCHR chief executive officer Bernard Mogesa, who is leading the investigations, noted that the killing of mostly of elderly women and men in Kisii and Nyamira counties has become endemic.

The KNCHR noted that the lynching trend largely targets old and poor widows in Gusiiland.

“While some old men have been victims of the horrid practice of “witch-burning” in Gusiiland, women particularly poor, old widows - are predominantly targeted,” said Mogesa.

Addressing journalists at a Kisii hotel on Friday ahead of the burial of four women who were lynched a month ago, Mogesa said the commission will table the report of its investigation to government agencies for action.

“I’m here with my team that is expected to table its report in one month,” said Mogesa.

The commission hailed Kisii Governor James Ongwae for inaugurating a task force to establish the circumstances under which poor and elderly persons are victimized and accused of witchcraft.

Mogesa added that KNCHR will be submitting its memorandum to the task force which was formed two weeks ago.

He said there is need to educate members of the Gusii community that witchcraft is just a myth often intensified by mischief.

“Faith-Based Organizations should take a more proactive role in educating people on the need to uphold the sanctity of human life,” added Mogesa.

He further challenged the media to help in highlighting the efforts both by the people and the government to have cooperation in the arrest of the suspects of witchcraft instead of lynching them.

“People should be encouraged to use the lawful channels and mechanisms to bring about the desired justice and redress. The community also needs to be educated on human rights standards and norms in order to stop targeting the elderly women and the poor,” added Mogesa.

He told individuals and members of the community to stop attacking other families with the aim of taking up their land.

Mogesa urged the government to speed up investigations to stop the practice to ensure that protection, justice, and redress is served.

“As a commission, we are calling for an urgent change of the response mechanism, early warning signs, and enhancing social protection systems for the vulnerable older persons,” he added.

On October 17, four elderly women from Mokona village, Marani ward in Kisii county were lynched on allegations of being witches.

The four women Sindege Mayaka, Jemima Nyang’ate Mironga, Sindege Nyakwara Masaku, and Agnes Moraa Ototo were suspected of having bewitched a form four student.

According to police records, the student was unable to speak, prompting the villagers to initiate a process of identifying the alleged witches.