The demonstration, spearheaded by the Council of Non-Governmental and Gender Organisations, highlighted the growing crisis of violence against women and children.

The protest comes amid an alarming increase in GBV cases, including rape and murder of minors, with some perpetrators being biological parents or siblings.

Reports from police indicate that cases of sexual violence against women have also surged. Protesters marched for approximately eight kilometres from the Cabinet Office to the High Court grounds, where they presented their petition to the Vice President.

Speaking to Channel Africa, correspondent Arthur Davies Sikopo noted that the rise in GBV cases over the past year has been particularly shocking.

"We used to see such cases, but the numbers have increased dramatically," he said.

"It’s not just women and girls who are affected; even boys are victims of sexual abuse, sometimes at the hands of their peers or older men in their communities."

The protest drew support from various sectors of society, including churches, student unions, and civil society groups, all demanding stronger legal measures to tackle GBV. One of the key concerns raised by protesters is the ease with which GBV perpetrators secure bail or bond, allowing them to return to society. Many argue that this legal loophole enables repeat offences and discourages victims from reporting crimes.

Police have been making arrests, but many cases are withdrawn by victims, particularly in domestic settings where financial dependence on perpetrators complicates matters. This has further fuelled calls for law reforms to ensure stricter punishment for offenders.

--ChannelAfrica--