Brutal mob assault in Kenya sparks #MyDressMyChoice

 By 
Megan Specia
 on 
Brutal mob assault in Kenya sparks #MyDressMyChoice
In this file photo, Kenyans stand at a bus stop in Nairobi as they head home from work on August 31, 2010. Credit: SIMON MAINA/AFP

Video of a Kenyan woman being stripped by a mob of men on a Nairobi street last week has ignited outrage and debate across the country.

The shocking assault in broad daylight at a city bus stop, which took place on Nov. 7, was allegedly carried out by men who felt she was dressed improperly.

In the footage, several men can be seen surrounding the woman and pulling at her clothes, as she tries to escape. Below are screenshots from the graphic video.

Mashable Image
Credit: YouTube/Charles Obara
Mashable Image
Screenshot from a video showing a woman being attacked and stripped by a mob in Nairobi. Credit: YouTube/Charles Obara

Following the incident, two bus companies that use the depot condemned the incident, and denied that any of their staff were involved. Kenyan police are currently investigating the incident.

A second video emerged on Friday showing another woman being brutally assaulted, adding further flame to the fire.

Supporters of women's rights have spoken out against the brutality via Twitter, using the hashtag #MyDressMyChoice.

Apathy starts in our Kenyan households. How young boys see their fathers treat wives and daughters #mydressmychoice— Hope Mwinzi (@hopemwinzi) November 14, 2014

As @CapitalFM_kenya we're fully in support of the #MyDressMyChoice campaign, and we shall be there next Monday. pic.twitter.com/Ug6KRljVkC— Capital in the Morn (@984inthemorning) November 14, 2014

#MyDressMyChoice We respect your Choice. We respect our gal players, our Girlfriends, our Fans, Sisters, Mothers, Daughters. We be Gentlemen— Nakuru Rugby Club (@NakuruRFC) November 14, 2014

Can all those who are trying to hop on that "indecency" train take a moment to reflect on the indecency of male entitlement #mydressmychoice— Anthea Taderera (@TCKFeminist) November 14, 2014

A woman's rights group organized a march planned for Nov. 17 to protest the violence.

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