The Ambassadors and High Commissioners to Kenya have raised concerns about numerous reports of abductions and enforced disappearances witnessed in the country.
In a joint statement published on Thursday, October 31, 2024, the Ambassadors and High Commissioners said that despite the High Court rulings, cases of arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances are still being reported.
The EU envoys, in the statement, stated that Kenyan leaders must ensure that the rule of law prevails and the judiciary rulings are followed.
“We note our concern over ongoing reports of arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances despite High Court rulings. It is crucial to ensure the rule of law prevails and the rulings of the judiciary are followed,” the joint statement reads.
They further indicated that Kenya’s Constitution has set out human rights and fundamental freedoms to its citizenry.
“Kenya’s own Constitution and its National Legislation set out the rights and fundamental freedoms to which each of its citizens is entitled,” the joint statement reads.
“It establishes the Bill of Rights as the framework for its economic and social policies. Upholding human rights leads to stability and prosperity.”
The council called for transparent investigations into the abductions adding that they are committed to supporting Kenya in promoting and protecting human rights.
“Swift and transparent investigations will enable Kenya to demonstrate to the World its commitment to upholding rights as it takes up its seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council.”
“The Council faces great challenges in promoting and protecting human rights worldwide and its work is evermore essential. As active members or observers of the Council, we will support Kenya in corralling the political will necessary to effect change,” the joint statement reads.
Senator Onyonka on abduction
On October 31, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka while condemning the disappearance of the social media activist Maverick Aoko stated that the constitution is definite on the freedoms of speech and safeguarding the rights of Kenyans.
“Our constitution is definite on the freedoms of speech & is pivotal in safeguarding the rights of Kenyans! I condemn the abduction of Aoko! illegal extrajudicial abductions, arrests & intimidations are some things that were in our past! This is painful, sad and unacceptable,” he condemned.
Aoko’s disappearance
According to Embakasi East MP Babu Owino who raised the alarm disclosed that Aoko had been missing for days.
“@AokoOtieno_ has been missing for days and her whereabouts is not known. I have reached out to her family members and close friends, but no one knows where she is!!” Babu Owino said in a public message on Monday, October 28, 2024.
