LAUNCH OF PROTECTION AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RULES

The government today marked a significant milestone in the collective efforts to combat domestic violence in Kenya during the launch of the Protection Against Domestic Violence Rules (PADV).

The Protection against Domestic Violence Rules are designed to provide a robust legal framework that strengthens the support and protection mechanisms available to survivors of domestic violence. These rules emphasize prevention, intervention, and holistic support, reflecting a multi-sectoral approach that involves collaboration between government agencies, civil society organizations, and the community at large.

Speaking during the launch in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Aisha Jumwa commended the Judiciary for raising the bar for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) cases.

“I wish to appreciate the accountability requirement for our courts to dispense swiftly and effectively cases of GBV. I commend our Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court, present with us today, for recently launching the first-ever special court for handling sexual violence cases at Shanzu Law Courts in Mombasa,” she said.

The Cabinet Secretary said the Judiciary’s commitment to raising the bar on judicial accountability for GBV cases will help preserve the dignity of survivors and enhance fair trial within the tenets of the Constitution.

She urged for cohesive teamwork noting that implementing the rules effectively requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders – government, development partners, civil society, community leaders, and every Kenyan citizen.

“We must all work together to create a society that rejects violence in all its forms and stands up for the rights and dignity of every individual,” she said.

The PADV rules establish clear guidelines for obtaining protection orders, ensuring that survivors have access to swift and effective legal remedies.
They emphasize the importance of prevention and early intervention and underscore the importance of public awareness and community engagement.

Statistics from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS 2022) indicate that over 40 per cent of women have experienced physical or sexual intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Moreover, the survey demonstrates that 43 per cent of women and 35 per cent of men believe that a man is justified to beat his wife. Among the rural population, 51 per cent of women and 40 per cent of men agreed that wife beating is justified.