The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has strongly condemned a disturbing case of assault in Narok following the circulation of a viral video showing a woman from Mbenek Dapashi in Narok Ward being brutally attacked.

In a statement released on Friday, September 26, 2025, KEWOPA expressed deep concern, saying violence and retrogressive practices have no place in society. “We stand with survivors and call for swift justice, accountability, and an end to harmful traditions that endanger women and girls,” the statement read.

KEWOPA Chairperson Leah Sankaire described the incident as a shameful reminder of persistent gender-based violence and harmful cultural practices that continue to affect Kenyan communities. It noted that it is heartbreaking and unacceptable that women and girls continue to face violence, intimidation and forced marriages. Such conduct, KEWOPA stated, violates the dignity and fundamental rights of women and undermines the fabric of society.

“Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) is deeply disturbed by a viral video showing a woman from Mbenek Dapashi in Narok Ward, Narok County, being assaulted by her brother over what is alleged to be a case of forced marriage.

“This incident is a shameful reminder that despite our tireless efforts to eliminate Gender-Based Violence (GBV), retrogressive and harmful practices persist in our communities,” KEWOPA said.

The association pledged to actively engage with security agencies to ensure thorough investigations and the delivery of justice without delay, emphasising that perpetrators, regardless of their relationship to the victim or claims of tradition, will face the full force of the law.

“It is both heartbreaking and unacceptable that women and girls continue to face violence, intimidation, and forced marriages in this day and age,” it added.

“Such conduct not only violates the dignity and fundamental rights of women but also undermines the very fabric of our society. KEWOPA is actively involved with the case and will work with the relevant security agencies to ensure thorough investigations are conducted and justice is delivered without delay.”

Police intensify manhunt

Parallel to KEWOPA’s efforts, police in the Mbene, Ngarite area of Narok Central Sub-County have intensified a manhunt for the assailants captured in the viral footage. The four suspects are identified as brothers of the victim, with one already arrested and awaiting arraignment in court.

In a separate statement on September 26, Police Director of Corporate Communication and Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga labelled the act as “barbaric and criminal”, assuring the public it will not go unpunished.

Survivor rescued

Authorities responded swiftly to the incident, rescuing the survivor and rushing her to hospital for treatment. The National Police Service has launched investigations, classifying the act as gender-based violence, assault and kidnapping—all punishable under Kenyan law.

Detectives are actively pursuing the remaining suspects, with Nyaga confirming officers remain committed to tracking them down.

The service commended the public for providing timely information that led to the first arrest, highlighting the role of community cooperation in combating crime.

It reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward gender-based violence, vowing to protect the dignity and rights of all Kenyans while ensuring all offenders are brought to book.