Woman’s swollen stomach a reminder of rape by police

• Military operation to flush out militias in Mt Elgon still haunts residents to date

“Several rape cases by either the militia or security personnel took place during the operation period. It is unfortunate that some of the victims have not received treatment,” said Ms Mary Chepkwony, the Chairperson of the organisation in charge of the North Rift and Mt Elgon area.

Moved by the woman’s suffering, the NGO, with assistance from Urgent Action Fund based in Nairobi, organised for her treatment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, alongside other women tortured during the operation.

Specialised treatment

“The victim was referred for specialised treatment when the stomach kept on swelling even after receiving treatment from local health clinics,” said Ms Chepkwony.

Medical reports say she developed heart problems due to the rape trauma. She also had fluid in her abdomen which caused the swelling and had to be drained.

“I have developed persistent pain on the right part of the abdomen,” said Grace.

Although her condition improved following two months of treatment, the situation deteriorated again last week and she had to be rushed back to hospital.

She was, however, discharged after her condition improved but she is required to undergo regular medical check-ups.

“The swelling has extended to my feet and I breath with a lot of difficulty,” explained Grace who spends Sh1,200 to travel from Kopsiro to Eldoret at least once a week for the check-up.

The sickness has immobilised her and she has to rely on her nine-year-old daughter to do family chores.

She said the situation was complicated further following the arrest of her husband on suspicion that he belonged SLDF.

He is among other SLDF suspects held at Bungoma GK prison facing trial.

She appeals to the Government to release her husband to take care of her and the family. “The situation could have been better if my husband was here. At least he could take care of the family,” she said.

Relatives and other well-wishers have been assisting her cultivate an half an acre of land where she has planted onions.

Despite the pains she is undergoing, Grace cannot afford to take legal action against the government.