Nyamira widow ordeal sparks outrage as calls for justice grow

The Nyamira woman who was assaulted for allegedly declining to bury her husband. [Stanley Ongwae, Standard]

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has condemned a brutal assault on a widow in Nyamira County, calling for urgent action against cultural practices that violate human rights.

The attack, captured in a viral video, occurred after the woman refused to perform a burial rite.

The incident has sparked national outrage, leading to the arrest of three suspects, with authorities promising further investigations.

"No culture or tradition should override an individual’s dignity, autonomy, and human rights," said NGEC chairperson Rehema Jaldesa.

"The vile act exposes the deep-rooted gender-based violence disguised as culture, violating women’s fundamental rights and dignity."

Nyamira South Police Commander Martin Wambugu confirmed the arrests yesterday and said more suspects were being pursued.

“The victim reported the matter at Kiambere Police Station, and we have already apprehended three key suspects. The search for others involved is ongoing,” Wambugu said.

The widow, who had been living apart from her late husband, returned to their matrimonial home to allow her children to bury their father.

In the Abagusii culture, widows and widowers are traditionally expected to throw soil onto the coffin after it is lowered into the grave. When she refused, she was subjected to a public whipping.

The attack has reignited debate over the role of cultural practices in modern society and the need to protect women from harmful traditions.

Jaldesa noted that many women endure similar injustices in silence, fearing community retribution. She urged authorities to act swiftly.

“We commend the National Police Service for the swift arrests and call for a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served,” she said, adding, “we stand in solidarity with the victim and reaffirm our commitment to ending gender-based violence and cultural injustices.”

Activists and human rights groups are demanding stricter enforcement of laws against gender-based violence and greater protection for vulnerable women.

"It is time to put an end to these harmful practices that strip women of their dignity. Justice must be served, and no woman should ever have to endure such brutality in the name of tradition," said Jaldesa.