The Angami Women Organisation (AWO) has issued a strongly worded condemnation against Reny Wilfred, stating it is “outraged and strongly condemns the repeated and inexcusable actions” of a man “who has shown a disturbing pattern of abusing his position of power to abuse women and children.”
In a statement issued by President Neithono R Sothu and General Secretary Atono Kense, AWO highlighted that “it is both alarming and shocking that this is not the first time such accusations have surfaced against him.” The organisation recalled that “during his tenure as the Deputy Commissioner of Noklak, he was accused of molesting two minor girls, a case that, tragically, remains unresolved to this day.”
The AWO further stated that Wilfred is “yet again… accused of sexually harassing women employees under his authority in the workplace, further compounding the trauma and injustice already inflicted.”
The women’s body said, “As a figure of authority, he should be safeguarding vulnerable employees with anti-discrimination and anti-harassment measures,” but instead his “repeated degrading and humiliating offenses highlight not only his blatant disregard for the law, but also the grave failure of the system to hold him accountable for his crimes time and again.”
Calling the situation “appalling and disturbing,” AWO declared that “despite serious allegations, Reny Wilfred has not been brought to justice, which emboldens perpetrators across our society who continue to harm others without fear of consequences.”
AWO demanded that “Reny Wilfred must be arrested without delay and treated as any other citizen accused of such grave crimes regardless of his position, title or connections,” and insisted on “a full, impartial investigation into all allegations against him.” The organisation also urged the judiciary “to fast-track the proceedings, ensuring justice is delivered under relevant laws.”
In a rallying call for unity, AWO stated, “It is vital now, that women stand in solidarity with each other and fight against such atrocities to uphold the dignity, safety and rights of women and children.”
The statement concluded by calling upon “civil societies, women organisations, and human rights defenders to come forward in this fight for justice,” and affirmed, “The safety of our women and children and the integrity of our justice system must never be compromised.”