Acting Interior Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has unveiled a new specialized unit within the Kenyan security forces aimed at addressing femicide cases, marking a major step in the fight against gender-based violence.
The unit, led by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, will be housed within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) homicide unit.
This move follows the disturbing rise in femicide incidents, with 100 murders recorded between August and November 2024.
In addition, Mudavadi highlighted that 7,107 cases of sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) had been reported across the country from September 2023 to late 2024.
He noted that Nairobi recorded the highest number of cases, while Mandera and Samburu had the lowest.
Mudavadi confirmed that the DCI had completed investigations into many of these cases, and the majority are now awaiting court proceedings.
He also announced that a presidential working group focused on femicide will be formed soon, with a mandate to present actionable recommendations within 90 days.
In his address, Mudavadi emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining safety across the nation, citing the tragic events during the Finance Bill protests in June 2024, which led to the deaths of several youthful protesters.
He reflected on the delicate balance between the right to protest and the need to preserve public order, condemning the infiltration of criminal elements into the demonstrations that caused widespread damage.
The CS also raised concerns about the role of social media in spreading false information, specifically regarding the arrests made during the protests.
He reassured the public that all arrests would be carried out in accordance with the law, and any officers involved in unlawful conduct would be held accountable.
On matters of national security, Mudavadi reported significant progress in combating terrorism, revealing that 27 terrorist attacks were thwarted between January 2022 and November 2024, and several terrorists were neutralized.
He praised international cooperation that led to 11 successful convictions in terrorism-related cases.
In a positive development, Mudavadi also reported a 62% reduction in cattle rustling in bandit-prone areas such as Baringo, Turkana, and West Pokot.
He credited the ongoing Maliza Uhalifu operation for the improved security, with 250 suspects, including 14 political leaders, arrested. However, he acknowledged the loss of 179 civilians and 4 officers in these areas.
Mudavadi also provided an update on infrastructure restoration, noting that 11 primary schools have been rebuilt and 9 others are scheduled for rehabilitation in time for the first term of 2025.
Addressing road safety, Mudavadi highlighted an 11% increase in injuries from road accidents in 2023 but pointed out a reduction in fatalities. He urged motorists to remain cautious during the festive season and announced an increased police presence and patrols on major highways to enforce road safety regulations.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring all public service vehicles (PSVs) have valid licenses and that officers remain vigilant in monitoring compliance.
Mudavadi concluded by urging Kenyans to collaborate with law enforcement to report criminal activities and enhance the country’s overall security.
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