Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua: PHOTO[COURTESY]
Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua threatened to take the Kenyan government to international courts for human rights abuses during anti-government protests. On Thursday, August 22, 2024, Karua announced plans to file complaints with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the UN Commission for Human Rights.
Karua criticized President William Ruto’s administration for reintroducing parts of the rejected Finance Bill 2024. She warned that these actions could spark nationwide protests again. Karua condemned the arbitrary arrests, abductions, and killings carried out by police during the protests, demanding that those responsible face justice.
She urged Kenyans to stay vigilant and resist any attempts to bring back controversial elements of the Finance Bill, such as the fuel levy. Karua accused President Ruto of using fear, intimidation, and the suppression of dissent as tools to crush opposition.
“We will submit this statement and more details as a formal complaint to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the UN Human Rights Commission, and other relevant organizations. Kenya must uphold the rights contained therein,” Karua said.
She questioned the fate of over 50 people who have gone missing since June 25th, asking whether they were dead or alive. Karua vowed not to stay silent, asserting that silence would make them complicit in the betrayal.
Karua blasted the government for disobeying court orders, including the use of lethal force during demonstrations, despite a court order prohibiting such actions.
She hinted at a possible return to street protests on August 27th to mark 14 years since the Constitution of Kenya 2010 was promulgated. Karua emphasized that authorities must follow the law when handling protests.
“As we approach the 14th anniversary of the promulgation of our Constitution on August 27th, we must reflect on how far we have strayed from its promise,” Karua said.
Karua also slammed the government’s plan to enter into a public-private partnership with the Adani Group for the rehabilitation of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). She raised concerns about the secrecy surrounding the deal and questioned how it would benefit Kenya.
“It’s the same script the regime is using to gift the Adani Group our main gateway, the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. I say ‘gift’ because this is surrounded by secrecy, and no one knows what benefit Kenya will get,” she added.
