FIDA-Kenya demands accountability following death of advocate Esther Wairimu Keige
FIDA-Kenya said Keige's disappearance and death should not be viewed in isolation, but as part of a disturbing pattern of violence against women in the.
The late Esther Wairimu Keige. (Photo: Handout)
The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has called for justice following the death of advocate Esther Wairimu Keige, saying the circumstances surrounding her death underscore Kenya's worsening femicide crisis and demand urgent action to protect women from gender-based violence.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, FIDA-Kenya said Keige's disappearance and death should not be viewed in isolation, but as part of a disturbing pattern of violence against women in the country.
"Kenya is caught in an unrelenting femicide crisis, where women are targeted and stripped of their fundamental right to life," the organisation said, adding that the incident highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to protect women.
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FIDA-Kenya called on the National Police Service (NPS) to carry out a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Keige's disappearance and death.
It urged investigators to identify those responsible, ensure they are prosecuted, and hold any individuals or entities found culpable accountable under the law.
Keige, the Legal Affairs Manager at the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), disappeared on June 10, 2026, after leaving her office along Kiambu Road.
Her body was later found in an isolated coffee plantation at Area 4 near Karimenu in Juja, Kiambu County, bringing to an end weeks of uncertainty over her whereabouts.
"The police must urgently investigate and unmask those behind her abduction and death, and ensure they face justice. Any individuals or entities found culpable must be held accountable according to the law," said FIDA.
Juja Sub-County Police Commander Isaac Kombo confirmed the discovery of the body, which was positively identified by family members before being moved to the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) mortuary for a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death.
Police have since launched investigations and are recording statements from family members and other witnesses.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) also called for an independent multi-agency investigation into Keige's death.
LSK President Charles Kanjama said the death came just days after advocate Edward Muthee Kariuki was killed in Athi River, raising concerns over the safety of lawyers in the country.
FIDA-Kenya conveyed its condolences to Keige's family, friends and colleagues, saying it stands in solidarity with them during this difficult time.
The women's rights organisation reaffirmed its commitment to championing justice, gender equality and the protection of women from all forms of violence.