Police are actively seeking a Kiambu man suspected of fatally assaulting his wife with a blunt object before fleeing the scene, as women's rights organizations intensify calls for action against escalating violence against women in Kenya.
Incident Details ¶
According to authorities, Jane Nduta, a 32-year-old mother of two, was found dead on the floor of her husband's rented home in Murera village, Juja, on Wednesday evening. Neighbors reported discovering her body and contacting police, who transported the remains to City Mortuary.
Mr. Peter Muchuru Mwaura, a quarry worker, allegedly lured his wife to the residence under the pretense of retrieving personal belongings. Witnesses noted the couple had been separating for three months and had been seen moving items from the house, suggesting an impending relocation. Ms. Nduta's sister, Esther Wanjiku, revealed the husband had remarried but continued contacting her sister, prompting warnings against further meetings.
Protest and Government Criticism ¶
On International Women's Day, activists gathered at Nairobi’s Uhuru Park to protest the surge in female homicides. Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris criticized the government for inadequate responses to gender-based violence, while women's rights advocate Christine Omao called for urgent measures, including potential national disaster declarations.
The demonstration, organized by groups like Feminists in Kenya and Haki Africa, highlighted ongoing concerns about domestic violence. Recent high-profile cases include the 2018 murder of Rongo University student Sharon Otieno and the 2019 killing of Monica Kimani, whose death led to criminal charges against a TV journalist and his partner.
Violence Statistics ¶
Counting Dead Women-Kenya documented 25 female fatalities between January 3 and February 28, 2019, underscoring the severity of the crisis. Juja deputy police commander Mike Njeru urged residents to assist in locating the suspect, emphasizing the need for community collaboration in solving the case.
