Amnesty International has urged the Dutch Royal Couple to focus on human rights during their visit to Kenya amidst concerns about recent abuses. Activists have campaigned against forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings since the 2024 protests. The organization seeks assurance that human rights discussions will take precedence over other diplomatic matters during the trip scheduled for March 18-20.
Amnesty International has urged the Dutch authorities to prioritize human rights during the upcoming state visit of the Dutch Royal Couple to Kenya. In a statement dated March 15, the organization emphasized the need for discussions to focus on recent human rights abuses in Kenya.
The letter serves as a final plea to ensure that human rights are at the forefront of the bilateral talks, especially considering the persistent calls to halt the visit over the last few months. Amnesty International emphasized the critical issues stemming from the violent crackdown on protests, stating that accountability for victims should be a key point of discussion.
Since the Gen Z protests in June 2024, human rights activists have rallied against forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. This ongoing activism has significantly influenced public opinion and campaigns to impede the visit of the Royal Family, evidenced by numerous letters and an online petition sent to Dutch authorities.
Irungu Houghton, Director of Amnesty Kenya, highlighted the violent context of the visit, with many demonstrators reportedly harmed by the authorities. He urged the Royal Couple and accompanying Dutch ministers to prioritize human rights over other topics such as economic and military issues during their diplomatic engagements.
Houghton called for a commitment from both governments to publicly disclose how they plan to improve the human rights situation in Kenya, reinforcing that economic or military priorities should not outweigh human rights considerations. The Royal Couple’s visit is scheduled for March 18 through March 20, coinciding with heightened scrutiny from some members of the Dutch Parliament regarding the implications of the trip.
In conclusion, Amnesty International’s appeal underscores the critical need for prioritizing human rights in diplomatic discussions during the Dutch Royal Couple’s forthcoming visit to Kenya. With ongoing human rights violations, it is essential that both the Dutch and Kenyan authorities commit to addressing these issues and ensuring accountability. The international community continues to watch this situation closely, emphasizing that economic and military interests should not overshadow fundamental human rights concerns.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
