Foreign envoys have expressed concern over the continued violation of human rights in the country.
Ambassadors and High Commissioners in a joint statement on Thursday said despite court rulings, arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances continue to be witnessed in the country.
They include envoys from the Royal Danish Embassy, embassies of Finland, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the British High Commission.
The ambassadors and High Commissioners have called for swift and transparent investigations into incidences of human rights violations to enable Kenya to demonstrate to the world its commitment to upholding rights as it takes up its seat at the UN Human Rights Council.
"We note our concern over ongoing arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances despite High Court rulings. It is crucial to ensure the rule of law prevails and the rulings of the judiciary are followed," the joint statement reads.
They noted that President William Ruto had shown commitment to prevent violations of human rights during his administration, indicating willingness from the government to address such issues.
"We note President Ruto's commitment that such incidents will not happen under his watch and that all individuals involved will be held accountable," the statement reads.
They said the Constitution of Kenya sets out the rights and fundamental freedoms to which each of its citizens are entitled and establishes the Bill of Rights as the framework for its economic and social policies.
The envoys have congratulated Kenya for getting a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council.
They acknowledged that the Council faces great challenges in promoting and protecting human rights worldwide and its work is evermore essential.
According to the envoys, there is need for political will and commitment from Member States to effect meaningful change, indicating their readiness to support Kenya in these efforts as an active participant in the Council.
“As active members or observers to the Council we will support Kenya in corralling the political will necessary to effect change” the statement reads.
They said upholding human rights leads to prosperity and stability.
