Nairobi:The Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, has urged residents and the clergy of Makueni County to support government initiatives aimed at ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the region. Murkomen emphasized that these issues are significantly affecting women and girls in Makueni County and across the nation, stating such behavior is unacceptable in society.
According to Kenya News Agency, Murkomen highlighted the prevalence of Gender-Based Violence in the area, noting incidents where men and women engage in spousal abuse. He called on the people of Makueni to unite in their efforts to eradicate GBV. His remarks came during an address to parents at The Kitondo School in Mbooni East Sub County, where he inaugurated a new dormitory with a 400-bed capacity.
Furthermore, Murkomen issued a stern warning to chiefs and their assistants about intervening in cases of rape or defilement, insisting that individuals involved in such crimes should face arrest and legal prosecution. He stated, "The people involved should be arrested, record statements and be prosecuted."
Murkomen also pointed out that SGBV cases are widespread throughout Kenya, not just in Makueni, and stressed the necessity for legal action, particularly in severe cases such as parental defilement. He urged for comprehensive measures to protect children, women, and families from acts of defilement, GBV, and other sexual offenses, highlighting that these actions are crucial for the country's progress.
Additionally, Murkomen appealed to parents, especially those of Christian faith, to embody and instill Christian principles as role models for their children, aiming to create harmonious and supportive family environments. He encouraged demonstrating Christian values at home, regardless of denominational affiliation, to foster love and unity within families.