A violent incident at the Kutiti Festival in Nairobi’s Carnivore Gardens has reignited debate over the role of bystanders in preventing gender-based violence. A viral video shows popular comedian Bella Comedy being assaulted by businessman Pavilion Kipkosgei, as onlookers failed to intervene.

The footage, widely circulated on social media, captures Kipkosgei—also known as Motiriot Kipkosgei or Pavilion Lounge—grabbing Bella, hauling her to her feet, and punching her repeatedly in the stomach during the Kalenjin cultural event. Several men stand nearby without stepping in.

At one point, Pavilion is seen dragging Bella out of the camera’s view as a woman’s voice off-screen asks, “Mbona mnaachilia dame achapwe?” (“Why are you letting a woman be beaten?”).

Bella’s account of the attackIn a tearful TikTok video, Bella described the ordeal as both humiliating and painful, made worse by the indifference of those around her.

“Men were just watching, and it was really painful that my fans had helped me get the ticket. I wish I never attended the event,” she said.

Addressing her attacker directly, Bella questioned his motives:

“You said I soiled your name online, but did you report me? Why are you beating me? How many people have reposted your story? Am I the only one? I have not even posted anything about that child.”

She added that she lost her bag and valuables during the assault, is undergoing medical treatment, and has obtained a P3 form to support her police complaint. She also rejected any calls for reconciliation, revealing that Pavilion had reached out after the footage went viral.

Public outcry and political condemnationThe video has sparked widespread outrage, with many Kenyans questioning why no one intervened. Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi condemned the assault and urged Kipkosgei to surrender to authorities.

“Violence against women is unacceptable. Kipkosgei, surrender yourself to the nearest police station,” Sudi said.

Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana echoed the condemnation, describing the attack as “totally unacceptable” and calling for collective action against gender-based violence.

Event organisers respondKutiti Festival organisers have distanced themselves from the incident, stating that the altercation was unrelated to the cultural event itself.

Meanwhile, the viral video continues to fuel debate over the responsibility of bystanders when violence unfolds in public.