MP Roza Buyu condemns violence against women in Kibuye Market dispute

Buyu insisted that justice must be allowed to take its course, emphasizing that no politician should attempt to bail her out. “The level of violence meted on women by someone who calls herself their leader is unacceptable. This must stop,” Buyu said, adding that Matengo must be held accountable for her alleged actions. Matengo was arraigned on Monday morning before Senior Principal Magistrate Robert Oanda at the Winam Law Courts, where she pleaded not guilty to assault charges. She appeared alongside her co-accused Marion Akinyi, who also denied the accusations. The court ordered the two to be remanded at Kodiaga GK Women’s Prison until Monday, the 24th, when their bond application will be heard. Their lawyer, Gilbert Oguso, requested their release on bond pending trial, but the State prosecutor—supported by officials from FIDA—strongly opposed the application. Matengo’s arrest followed the circulation of a viral video on social media allegedly showing her beating two women at Kibuye Market with a wooden rod. The victims have since recorded statements, and police investigations are ongoing. Despite the serious allegations, dozens of traders turned up at the court in a show of solidarity with the accused chairlady, signaling deep divisions within the market’s leadership and trader community.