EU Diplomats Press Kenya on Reports of Dissident Abductions and Enforced Disappearances

Nine diplomats, including ambassadors and high commissioners from European countries, have urged the Kenyan Government to address reports of abductions and enforced disappearances in Kenya.

The joint statement was issued on Thursday by the UK British High Commission in Kenya, noting their concerns over ongoing reports of arbitrary arrests. It enforced disappearances in the country despite High Court rulings.

We extend our congratulations to Kenya on its election to the United Nations Human Rights Council. The Council faces great challenges in promoting and protecting human rights worldwide, and its work is essential, the statement reads partly.

As active members or observers to the Council, we will support Kenya in corralling the political will necessary to effect change, it added.

Referencing Kenya’s Constitution and its National Legislation, which sets out citizens’ rights, the Council noted its concern over human rights law.

It is crucial to ensure the rule of law prevails and the rulings of the judiciary are followed,’ the statement reads.

The Council’s joint statement further noted President William Ruto’s commitment that “such incidents will not happen under his watch” and that “all individuals involved be held accountable.”

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 statement added.

Notably, the statement was signed by Ambassadors and High Commissioners from the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, Ireland, and Finland as Kenya prepares to take its seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in January 2025.

While the diplomats noted that Kenya’s Constitution and Bill of Rights provide a solid legal framework, one that upholds these rights and fosters stability and prosperity, President Ruto has denied his involvement in the killings, abductions, and forceful disappearances of dissidents (Kenyans) since the deadly June 25 anti-finance protests.

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Mayowa Durosinmi

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M. Durosinmi is a West Africa Weekly investigative reporter covering Politics, Human Rights, Health, and Security in West Africa and the Sahel Region

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