As Kenya goes to the polls, national and international observers and human rights actors have warned of the risk of election violence, including the deliberate targeting of civilians due to political or ethnic affiliations. After the 2007 to 2008 elections, thousands of cases of rape and other forms of sexual assault were documented. I urge the authorities in Kenya to ensure that civilians of all ethnic and political backgrounds can exercise their right to vote in safety and security, and to guarantee that in the post-election period we do not witness the rise in politically-motivated rape which occurred in the wake of the last elections.
Many of the women and children have had to live with the devastating impact of these rapes as they were infected with HIV, syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases, or have given birth to children born of rape. Castrations and forced circumcisions were also recorded. A number of victims have expressed fear of once again being targeted.
I call on all candidates to speak out against election violence, and for the Kenyan authorities to take the necessary steps to avert the risk of increased sexual violence and ensure the protection of civilians, especially women and girls. Above all, the Kenyan authorities must remain alert to the warning signs and send the signal that such crimes will not be tolerated.
The victims of the 2007 to 2008 elections are still awaiting justice. Ultimately, it is critical that perpetrators are held accountable and that the victims of all forms of sexual violence in Kenya see justice done.