A UN expert has urged the Kenyan and Pakistani governments to accelerate their investigation into journalist Arshad Sharif’s murder, nearly two years after his death and following a Kenyan court’s ruling that deemed it unlawful. Despite this ruling, no police officers have been charged, raising serious concerns about accountability.
On September 27, 2024, a United Nations expert emphasized the need for both Kenyan and Pakistani authorities to intensify their investigation into the murder of journalist Arshad Sharif, who was killed in Kenya nearly two years ago. Irene Khan, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression, underscored the importance of prosecuting those responsible for this crime, particularly following a significant ruling by the Kenyan High Court. The court characterized the use of lethal force that resulted in Sharif’s death as “unlawful, arbitrary, and disproportionate.” Despite this judicial determination, there have been no arrests or charges filed against the officers involved in the shooting. Ms. Khan expressed her deep concerns regarding the lack of action from both the Kenyan government and Pakistani authorities in advancing their investigations. The Kenyan High Court, in its judgment issued after a civil suit from Sharif’s family, decreed that the state must compensate the family with 10 million shillings. “The High Court judgement is an important victory, but its real impact will only be felt if the two governments bring the perpetrators of Sharif’s killing to justice,” she asserted. In light of these circumstances, she urged both governments to display political commitment to ensure accountability, emphasizing that justice for Sharif and his family cannot be achieved until a full clarification of the murder’s circumstances is established, particularly in the context of whether it constituted a transnational crime.
The article discusses the ongoing demand for justice following the assassination of journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya. It highlights the urgency expressed by United Nations expert Irene Khan for both Kenyan and Pakistani authorities to take significant action in investigating Sharif’s murder after a pivotal ruling by a Kenyan court acknowledged his death as unlawful. This situation draws attention to the broader issue of journalist safety and the accountability of government forces in cases of unlawful killings. The Kenyan High Court’s decision required the government to compensate Sharif’s family, but it has raised concerns over the lack of legal repercussions for the police involved in his death. The article aims to shed light on the complexities surrounding the investigation and the implications it holds for future journalist protections.
In conclusion, the call from UN expert Irene Khan for enhanced investigatory efforts from Pakistan and Kenya serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of accountability in cases involving the deaths of journalists. Nearly two years after Arshad Sharif’s murder, the lack of arrests and prosecutions highlights a troubling trend regarding impunity. It is essential for the governments involved to respond decisively in order to honor the legacy of Arshad Sharif and uphold the principles of justice and security for journalists worldwide.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
