Martha Karua Calls for Action Against Gender-Based Violence

People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has renewed her call for stronger action against gender-based violence (GBV), highlighting the alarming number of Kenyan women affected by physical and sexual violence.

In a statement shared on social media, Karua noted that nearly one in three Kenyan women has experienced physical violence, while approximately one in eight has experienced sexual violence. She described these figures as indicative of millions of lives disrupted and dreams cut short.

Martha Karua is known for her advocacy on women’s rights and social justice in Kenya. As a prominent political figure, she has been vocal about various issues affecting women, including the enforcement of safety policies in public transport and the need for urgent government action against GBV.

The issue of GBV has gained significant attention in Kenya, particularly following a high-level taskforce's recommendation in January 2026 to declare GBV, including femicide, a national crisis requiring urgent action, as reported by The Star. Karua's recent statements align with ongoing public discourse surrounding women's safety and political accountability, especially in light of her condemnation of state-sanctioned violence against women in Uganda earlier this year.

Karua's consistent advocacy against GBV and political repression underscores a broader movement in Kenya aimed at addressing systemic issues that affect women's rights. Her calls for action resonate with many Kenyans who seek to see tangible changes in policies and societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.

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