Gender, Culture, and Children Services Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo has issued a strong condemnation following the assault of a young woman, identified as Bella Comedy, during the Kutit Festival held at the Carnivore Grounds over the weekend.
In a statement on Monday, CS Cheptumo described the incident, which was captured in a widely circulated video, as “deeply disturbing” and unacceptable.
“We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, any act of violence, harassment, or assault against women and girls,” Cheptumo declared. “Such acts are not only criminal but also a direct violation of the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution. They have no place in our country. Women’s rights are human rights.”
The Cabinet Secretary assured the survivor and the public that her ministry is collaborating closely with law enforcement to ensure the matter is investigated promptly and the perpetrators are prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
The Kutit Festival, known for attracting large crowds, came under scrutiny after the viral footage showed the attack, sparking widespread outrage online. Cheptumo emphasized that beyond bringing the culprits to justice, preventive measures must be strengthened to safeguard women and girls at public events.
She urged event organizers, venue owners, and security providers to uphold the highest safety standards, stressing the need for robust, effective, and strictly enforced security protocols.
“We must ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, can participate in cultural and social events without fear of harassment or violence,” she said.
Cheptumo also reiterated that gender-based violence (GBV) remains a grave national concern, calling for a united front in combating the vice. She noted that while laws exist to protect victims, collective responsibility—spanning government, private sector, and civil society is crucial in eradicating GBV.
Her remarks add to growing calls from activists and the public for stricter accountability in event management and stronger deterrents against sexual and gender-based crimes.
Investigations into the Kutit Festival incident are ongoing, with police expected to release an update in the coming days.
