Demands For Arrest Of Women Assaulting Taxi Driver In Viral Video
Footage of the incident has since triggered public outrage online, with many Kenyans demanding swift action against those involved.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has denounced the alleged assault of a taxi driver by a group of women after a night out, calling for swift justice for the victim.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 23, Sonko said he was disturbed by the incident, questioning how anyone could turn on a driver who had safely taken them home after a night of revelry.
“Why would anyone insult and assault a cab driver who safely took them home after sherehe? This is completely unacceptable and deeply disturbing.
"No disagreement whatsoever should ever escalate into violence, abuse, or the destruction of someone’s livelihood,” Sonko stated in part.
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko addressing the press at his Nairobi office. /EACC
He noted that the driver was simply trying to earn an honest living, describing the attack as especially cruel and unjustified.
“This man is a hustler, earning an honest living to support himself and his family. Taking advantage of him in such a cruel manner is wrong and unjustifiable,” he added.
Reports circulating online indicated that the incident happened after the driver dropped off a group of women following a night out. Upon reaching their destination, the women allegedly declined to pay the fare.
When the driver insisted on payment, the situation reportedly spiralled out of control. The women, said to have been intoxicated, allegedly assaulted him both verbally and physically.
The violence extended beyond the driver. The women are also accused of vandalising his vehicle, smashing side mirrors, and denting the body of the car, further damaging his source of income, as seen by Viral Tea.
Details surrounding what exactly triggered the confrontation remain unclear, with reports indicating that the driver has yet to formally report the matter to the police.
Sonko, who has previously spoken out against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), said the incident must be condemned regardless of who the victim or perpetrator is.
“As a strong ambassador in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), I strongly condemn this act. Violence in any form, whether against men or women, must never be tolerated. GBV is not selective, and justice must apply equally to all,” he said.
He called on law enforcement to act without delay. “I am calling for immediate justice for this driver and urge the relevant authorities to arrest and charge the ladies involved for assault and for damaging his vehicle. Accountability must be enforced,” Sonko stated.
The former governor also vowed to personally support the driver as he seeks justice. “I stand ready to support him fully in his pursuit of justice. No hustler deserves to be abused for simply doing their job,” he said.
Footage of the incident has since triggered public outrage online, with many Kenyans demanding swift action against those involved.