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As Kenyans celebrated Jamhuri Day, a day of national pride commemorating the nation’s hard-won independence, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) issued a sobering statement reflecting on the country’s progress and persistent challenges.

“Today, we celebrate Jamhuri Day, a day that our forefathers and mothers fought with blood and sweat to ensure that future generations enjoy the freedom, independence, and nationhood of our beloved motherland,” the statement began, striking a poignant tone.

However, the Commission’s message, delivered by Chairperson Roseline Odedo, underscored deep concerns over recent events that threaten the fabric of those freedoms.

Highlighting the violence that erupted during a peaceful protest against femicide on December 10, coinciding with International Human Rights Day, the KNCHR described the actions of security forces as unwarranted and excessive.

“It is disheartening that on December 10, a day celebrated globally to mark the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, peaceful demonstrators advocating against the unprecedented surge in femicide faced violence,” the statement read.

“Ironically, those who faced the brunt were women – our mothers, sisters, wives, and daughters – marching for their lives, dignity, and security,” it added.

A stark irony

The Commission lamented the grim irony of such violations occurring just as Kenya begins its tenure as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

“This membership raises the bar even higher, for it requires that Kenya sets an example in the promotion and protection of human rights,” Odedo noted.

The KNCHR emphasized the constitutional mandate of security agencies to act as human rights defenders, as enshrined in Article 244(c) of Kenya’s Constitution.

The violence, the Commission argued, not only undermined Kenya’s international commitments but also eroded public trust in institutions tasked with protecting fundamental freedoms.

Demands for accountability

In its statement, the KNCHR called for immediate investigations and prosecutions of officers involved in the violence, stressing the need for individual accountability.

“We remind the security agencies that they are the first Human Rights Defenders,” the Commission asserted, adding, “True independence is only realized when every person in Kenya enjoys their rights without fear.”

The KNCHR also reiterated the importance of safeguarding civic space and protecting human rights defenders, urging the government to uphold democratic principles.

As Jamhuri Day celebrations unfolded, Odedo’s statement served as both a reflection and a rallying cry.

“May we stand united to protect the dignity and rights of all in Kenya, ensuring that no voice for justice and equality is silenced,” she concluded.