A disturbing video circulating on social media has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for the protection of women’s rights, after it showed a pregnant woman being violently assaulted by three men in Nkareta, Narok North constituency.
The victim, identified as Lepeita, is believed to have been attacked by her own brothers for defying their wishes and marrying a man they disapproved of.
According to local sources, the family had attempted to force her into an arranged marriage with a man from a different family of their choosing a proposal she firmly rejected.
In the now-viral footage, Lepeita is seen being mercilessly beaten with sticks by the three men, while her mother watches in horror and pleads with them to stop.
Her cries for mercy, however, go unanswered as the brutal assault continues.
Lepeita, who is several months pregnant, sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical care at the Narok County Referral Hospital.
Medical personnel have confirmed that both she and her unborn child are under close observation.
Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who are believed to have fled the area shortly after the attack.
Authorities have urged members of the public to share any information that could lead to their arrest.
Narok County MP Rebecca Tonkei and County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia have both strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a gross violation of human rights and an affront to the dignity of women.
“This is a barbaric act that must not go unpunished,” said MP Tonkei. “Women have a right to choose whom to marry without facing violence or coercion.”
Commissioner Lotiatia echoed the sentiments, adding that the perpetrators will be brought to justice and that the government remains committed to protecting vulnerable women and girls from such acts of gender-based violence.
Gender rights activists have also joined in condemning the incident and are calling for long-term interventions, including community education and legal reforms, to combat deeply rooted cultural practices that undermine women’s autonomy.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
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