Kenya University Students Association (KUSO) Petitions MPs to Declare GBV a National Disaster

Kenya University Students Association (KUSO) Petitions MPs to Declare GBV a National Disaster.

Kenya University Students Association (KUSO) President Antony Manyara has petitioned Members of Parliament to urge President William Ruto to declare femicide and gender-based violence a national disaster. This request follows a worrying increase in such cases across the country.

In his petition, Manyara highlighted the alarming rise in violence against women and femicide-related deaths, emphasizing the need for swift and decisive action from national leaders.

The petition, submitted to the Clerk of the National Assembly on November 15, urged MPs to act expeditiously.

Manyara stressed that Article 119 of the Kenyan Constitution grants every citizen the right to petition Parliament to address pressing matters. He urged the legislature to use its authority to compel the President to act on the crisis.

He argued that a formal declaration of gender-based violence as a national disaster would highlight the severity of the issue and facilitate the mobilization of necessary resources to address it effectively.

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Manyara pointed out that the Constitution invalidates any laws or practices inconsistent with its provisions.

He called on all Kenyans to respect, uphold, and defend constitutional values, which include promoting human dignity, equity, social justice, inclusiveness, equality, and the protection of marginalized groups.

Government’s Concern

Earlier this month, President William Ruto acknowledged the growing trend of femicide and called on security agencies to take action. He expressed deep concern over the increasing loss of women’s lives through violent acts.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat also admitted a sharp rise in cases of murder and manslaughter in the country. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to end the menace.

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Summary of Recommendations

Manyara’s petition underscored the following key points:

1. Parliament should urge the President to declare femicide and gender-based violence a national disaster.
2. A declaration would underscore the crisis’s seriousness and facilitate resource mobilization.
3. All actions must align with constitutional principles, ensuring human dignity, equality, and non-discrimination.

The petition reiterates the urgent need for government action to address and curb the escalating crisis of femicide and gender-based violence in Kenya.

Kenya University Students Association (KUSO) Petitions MPs to Declare GBV a National Disaster.

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