Protesters in the streets of Nairobi/FILE
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has listed five recommendations to the government in the wake of alleged abductions and enforced disappearances.
KNCHR raised concerns about alleged escalating human rights violations across various parts of the country.
In a statement on Friday, the Commission said the incidents, which range from enforced disappearances to targeted intimidation of human rights and social justice defenders, reflect a troubling degeneration of safety and security.
"We call for urgent action to address these human rights violations and abuses of fundamental freedoms, as they strike at the very heart of the constitutional values and rights guaranteed to all Kenyans," the statement reads.
KNCHR urged the relevant authorities, particularly the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa), to prioritise investigations into cases of disappearances.
"Enforced disappearances cannot and must not be normalized in Kenya. The government must adhere to its constitutional obligations under Article 238 to ensure the safety of every individual within our borders."
The Commission said the DCI and Ipoa must expedite investigations into the disappearance of Brian Odhiambo, the teargassing of students, the arrest of the social justice defender, and the killing of the Molo-based Human Rights defender.
KNCHR said transparent updates must be provided to the public and the affected families.
According to the statement, Human Rights Defenders should be protected, release and drop all charges levelled against Grace Njoki Mulei, and establish and implement a national framework for the protection of human rights defenders.
The Commission further said adequate security for individuals who are under threat due to their advocacy work should be provided.
They have called for an end to police brutality, saying the National Police Service must implement measures to prevent the use of excessive force, particularly during peaceful protests, and officers involved in human rights violations must face disciplinary and legal consequences.
The Commission called on the government to engage the citizenry in constructive dialogue where authorities must engage in meaningful dialogue with citizens to address grievances and foster trust.
They also called on the prioritization of platforms for peaceful resolution of disputes over repressive actions.
KNCHR said the government should uphold constitutional rights.
"All duty bearers and state actors must adhere to the Bill of Rights as enshrined in Chapter Four of the Constitution, and violations of fundamental freedoms must be met with swift corrective action," the statement read.
The Commission reminded the government and all state actors of their duty to uphold the Constitution and protect the rights of every individual.
"The current state of human rights violations is unacceptable and must be addressed with urgency. KNCHR calls upon all duty bearers and state actors to work towards ensuring justice, accountability, and the restoration of the rule of law, safety, and security in Kenya."
