MuthoniMUTHONI
Heading Out of Country
2 July, 1996
TO ALL MEN OF KENYA INCLUDING PRESIDENT DANIEL TOROITICH ARAP MOI
I remember being violated by a man by the time I was seven years old. He is a member of my family on my mum's side - I wonder if he remembers the torture he put me through that I have to deal with for the rest of my life!!!! When I was about eleven, I was raped at the pathway leading home to my dad's house. It was in broad day light, quick action that ended before I knew what was going on. I dared not tell anyone these things and now I wonder how many women are keeping quiet. When I was about fifteen, I escaped yet another rape, this time I ran for my life. In 1992, I literally fought a man off me. I am speaking for every silent woman in Kenya and in the world, saying, "WE HAVE RIGHTS." I speak for all men too.
President Moi should know that we as Kenyans have the same rights as everyone else in the world, just by virtue of being human beings. This right has been taken away from us through corruption!! People are no longer treated with dignity. I cannot hold a meeting without a permit. The right to life, liberty and security has been taken away. People have been tortured for speaking the truth. I would like people to know they have rights. People are not issued passports without bribery, yet they have a right to travel. I had to pay Kshs. 2000 for renewal of my passport in June, this is disgusting since there was not supposed to be any charge. I have been forced to flee Kenya and go away. I have an exit but I do not know where I will be after the conference in which I am representing secretaries especially single mothers. All I know is that I will continue to fight for our rights. If possible, I will be back with change. I am risking my life and my family's life as well as my daughter's life but I will be back if possible. You have the rights my people and no one should take away the rights to which we all are entitled.
If I do not come back because I could possibly die of an ailment, know that I begun something that is good. Other people in the team will see it to the end till you are delivered. Moi, deliver my people.
To you my family, I hope you join me as soon as I settle. Forgive me for the risk in which I have exposed you to. Jessy, my daughter, I am not leaving you alone, you are always with me.
If any death occurs because of this letter, it is for a worthwhile cause.
Common everybody, let's get to work.
It will be soon when I will be home again...there I will see my late daughter's grave...and lots of folk some who I have NEVER seen. Oh my!
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