Members of Mihiriga Kenda-a traditional organization based in Juja-have rebuffed allegations of conducting and perpetrating female genital mutilation (FGM) that was illegalized by the government.
The group led by Muthumbi Mwangi and Kamau Kirigi refuted claims that they have mutilating their female members including school-going children, noting that it is a fallacy that has been peddled for long to tarnish and discredit the group.
They spoke after authorities raided their shrine in Juja, Kiambu County on Saturday, on suspicions that the group is a criminal sect and has been perpetrating the outlawed practice. Several members of the organization were arrested.
“We do not engage, promote or condone female genital mutilation because it is a criminal offence. We emphasize that anyone who commits this crime must be investigated and held personally accountable by the law,” Kirigi said.
He noted that there have been relentless efforts to malign the group through false allegations which has driven a wedge between its members and other members of the community.
They also took issue with the authorities, especially a local chief, who allegedly forcibly subjected a minor to an invasive genital inspection, to ascertain whether she has been subjected to FGM. The girl was later examined in a health facility and confirmed that she is not a victim.
“This act violated the law, degraded the child and infringed on her constitutional rights, bodily integrity and dignity as guaranteed in our constitution. No child should ever endure such treatment and no circumstances justify this abuse,” Kirigi said.
The group also refuted claims that they have been operating as a criminal sect with affiliations with the outlawed Mungiki sect. They noted that they are duly registered with the Registrar of Societies under the name Wicarie Society and that they engage in lawful activities including cultural, educational and spiritual work.
“We are a peaceful organization dedicated to preserving Agikuyu cultural and spiritual heritage. We do not coerce, radicalize or force anyone to participate. This blanket condemnation of cultural or spiritual organizations is unjust,” Mwangi said.
He added, “We are an open organization and invite the public to join and participate in our cultural and spiritual activities, learn about our traditions and experience the values and heritage of the Agikuyu people firsthand.”
They called on the government to ensure that justice is served and that they be granted their constitutional rights to freedom of worship, culture and association. They noted that repeated raids on their shrines and premises have undermined their freedom to worship and associate.
“The truth will prevail and our organization will continue its mission of cultural preservation and lawful community service,” said Wanjiru Kiarie, a member.
Earlier, Juja MP George Koimburi spoke to the group at Juja police station where he demanded immediate release of those in custody arguing that none was found engaging in any illegal activity.
He censured the authorities for infringing on the group’s rights to associate and worship despite being a legally-acknowledged group.
