FIDA condemns claims of rape during UoN riots

FIDA Kenya has come out to strongly condemn the alleged sexual violence that was meted upon female University of Nairobi students during the riots that erupted after the disputed Students Organisation of Nairobi University (SONU) elections.

In a statement to newsrooms, FIDA expressed their disappointment at the manner in which security forces handled the situation, saying female students were not participating in the riots and that security forces entering their hostels where they sought refuge was “a clear indication of purposed atrocities by the GSU.”

“We are informed that female students were raped and sexually assaulted, their personal property including mobile phones, money and laptops were also stolen from them. GSU Officers have perfected their act of looting and robbing from innocent citizens without any action being taken. This practice must be stopped. By no means were the various forms applied a way of calming the riots. This is a continuous confirmation that women are used as tools of war or conflict,” read the statement in part.

FIDA further expressed their disappointment with at the university’s administration silence on the matter.

The organisation is now calling upon the Director of Public Prosecution and the Inspector General of the Police to ensure immediate action is taken against the perpetrators.

It has further called upon the University Administration to put in place mechanisms to ensure that such incidents are not repeated and ensure the safety and security of all students under their care.

The University of Nairobi was on Tuesday afternoon closed indefinitely following the riots after a resolution was reached by a special Senate meeting held at Utalii House.