King Willem-Alexander backs Kenyans’ push for human rights, plans dialogue with young people
Dutch King Willem-Alexander has reaffirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to strengthening its relationship with Kenya while addressing recent concerns over human rights, governance, and accountability.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi during his State Visit to Kenya on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, King Willem-Alexander emphasized the deep ties between the two nations and the importance of respecting democratic freedoms.
“We attach great value to our cooperation with Kenya. This visit shows just how closely our interests are aligned and how strong our ties have become—not just between our governments but also through our businesses, ideals, and joint initiatives,” the King stated.
He stressed the necessity of hearing citizens’ voices, highlighting that Kenya’s future should be shaped by its people.
“The people of Kenya, like those of the Netherlands, want their rights as free citizens to be respected and their voices to be heard. I am pleased that our countries’ strong and mature relationship allows us to focus on issues like human rights, good governance, and accountability during this visit,” he added.
As part of his visit, the Dutch monarch announced plans to engage directly with young Kenyans on recent issues related to human rights, good governance, and accountability.
“Later this morning at the ambassador’s residence, we will be meeting young Kenyans to hear their views on recent developments. What opportunities do they see to build a bright future for the country they love—a future in which everyone can participate on an equal footing,” he noted.
Petition to halt the Royal visit
The King’s remarks address the controversy surrounding his visit, which sparked an online petition and protests calling for its cancellation due to human rights violations in Kenya.
Launched on January 15, 2025, by Jaya Khamala, a Kenyan-born Netherlands resident, the petition has garnered over 22,000 signatures.
It urged the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs to reconsider the royal visit, citing concerns over arbitrary arrests, unlawful detentions, and the suppression of activists and protesters under President William Ruto’s administration.
“This visit should not proceed while Kenya’s current administration, led by President William Ruto, continues to violate fundamental human rights and undermine democratic principles,” the petition reads.
It further argues that the visit risks legitimizing a government with a ‘troubling record’ on governance and accountability.
In addition to the petition, Kenyans have sent emails to the Dutch government seeking to halt the visit.
Addressing these concerns, Khamala, who has lived in the Netherlands for seven years, told Dutch broadcaster NOS in an article dated January 14, 2025, that she reached out to the Dutch government to express her worries.
“I have already sent several emails to the Government Information Service in the hope that they will listen to me,” she stated.
The petition also raises concerns about President Ruto’s past involvement with the International Criminal Court (ICC) regarding the 2007-2008 post-election violence in Kenya, noting that unresolved questions remain about his role in the crisis.
According to the petition, postponing or cancelling the visit would send a strong message regarding the Netherlands’ commitment to protecting human rights and would encourage the Kenyan government to implement meaningful reforms.
Despite these concerns, the state visit is proceeding as planned, with the King and Queen Máxima engaging in discussions with Kenyan leaders on economic cooperation, human rights, and sustainable development.
