![Irũngũ Houghton, Executive Director for Amnesty International Kenya. PHOTO[COURTESY]](https://womankenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Irungu-1.png)
Irũngũ Houghton, Executive Director for Amnesty International Kenya. PHOTO[COURTESY]
In an era where civil liberties are increasingly under threat, the backbone of Kenya’s democracy—its Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)—is facing unprecedented challenges. A recent press statement issued on July 20, 2024, by a coalition of these organizations fiercely defends their indispensable role in safeguarding democratic values, promoting transparency, and amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities.
For decades, CSOs have tirelessly upheld justice and democracy, acting as the unsung heroes of Kenya’s growth and stability. They have crucially ensured the protection of all Kenyans’ rights. In the past three months alone, civil society and the media have robustly pushed for accountability in public finance management, protected human rights, including freedom of expression and the right to assemble, and actively opposed extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, and the theft of public resources.
Amidst these efforts, the government implied in a letter that CSOs fund and support unlawful behavior and unruly protests—a claim that starkly contradicts the mission of these organizations. The coalition categorically repudiates these unfounded accusations in their statement, reiterating their call for the government to uphold the constitution and protect independent civil society organizations and media in Kenya.
The press statement emphasizes that allegations of CSOs being complicit in promoting illegal activities during protests are false. It argues that such accusations aim to tarnish the perception of CSOs among the citizenry. Instead, CSOs have initiated rapid response interventions to meet the pressing needs of Kenyans affected by the crisis, providing legal aid, medical assistance, and psychosocial support. These actions demonstrate a commitment to justice and human rights, not support for lawlessness and violence.
Moreover, the statement addresses the government’s suggestion that funding drives young people, particularly Gen Z, to speak up and use their voices. This notion devalues the genuine contributions of young Kenyans, who have shown remarkable dedication and initiative in advocating for positive change. Their voices shape the future of our nation and deserve respect and recognition.
The coalition expresses deep concern over the violent crackdowns, abductions, and disappearances of Kenyans who have expressed concerns over governance and human rights. These acts of repression against CSOs, human rights defenders, and the media have escalated in recent weeks, with prominent organizations facing increased intimidation, harassment, and threats.
In light of these challenges, the coalition calls upon the government and all stakeholders to protect the Kenyan civic space. CSOs must be allowed to operate without undue interference or baseless accusations. The constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression—rights that must be honored for every Kenyan.
Additionally, the coalition demands accountability in the budget-making process, a thorough constitutional audit of public debt, and the prosecution of those accused of corruption and theft of public funds. Upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all parties are accountable for their actions is paramount.
In conclusion, the coalition resolutely commits to supporting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. They stand in solidarity with civil society organizations and urge the government to recognize and respect these organizations’ indispensable role in Kenya’s progress. They call on Kenyans to stay vigilant and active in their civic duties, assert their direct power in state affairs, and ensure the government keeps channels for direct participation open, even when it causes discomfort to those in authority.
The statement is endorsed by a wide array of organizations, including Action Aid International Kenya, Amnesty International Kenya, Human Rights Watch, and the Law Society of Kenya, among others. Together, they stand united in their mission to uphold the principles of democracy and justice in Kenya.
