Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua has issued a stern warning to the Kenyan government, threatening to escalate alleged human rights abuses during recent anti-government protests to international courts.
Karua's move underscores the gravity of the situation as she accuses the government of widespread violations, including arbitrary arrests, abductions, and extrajudicial killings carried out by the police.
The protests, which erupted in response to the controversial Finance Bill and broader discontent with President William Ruto's administration, have been marked by a heavy-handed response from security forces.
Karua, a former Azimio la Umoja running mate in the 2022 General Election, has been vocal in her criticism of the government's tactics.
In a statement titled "Lest We Forget," she condemned the government's actions, labeling them illegal and unconstitutional.
Karua specifically cited the ongoing disappearance of over 50 people since June 25, 2024, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
These disappearances have raised alarm among human rights organizations and families of the missing, who are demanding answers.
Karua questioned whether these individuals are alive, stressing that silence on the matter would equate to complicity.
“We refuse to remain silent; remaining silent would make us accomplices to the betrayal,” Karua declared, her words reflecting the frustration and fear felt by many Kenyans who have been affected by the crackdown on dissent.
Karua also expressed concern over the disobedience of court orders by the government, particularly regarding the use of lethal force against protesters.
Despite a court order prohibiting the use of such force, there have been multiple reports of police employing live ammunition and excessive force to disperse crowds.
Karua argues that this defiance of the judiciary sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the rule of law in Kenya.
In her statement, Karua announced her intention to take the matter to international forums if the Kenyan government does not address these human rights violations.
She mentioned plans to submit a formal complaint to the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights as well as the United Nations Human Rights Commission.
“We will submit this statement and more details as a formal complaint to the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, the UN Human Rights Commission, and other relevant organizations,” Karua stated, emphasizing Kenya’s obligation to uphold international human rights standards.
The veteran politician also hinted at the possibility of renewed street protests, coinciding with the upcoming 14th anniversary of the promulgation of the Kenyan Constitution on August 27.
Karua called on the government to respect the constitutional rights of citizens to peacefully assemble and protest, warning that any attempts to suppress such activities would be met with strong resistance.
“As we approach the 14th anniversary of the promulgation of our Constitution on August 27th, we must reflect on how far we have strayed from its promise,” Karua noted, urging Kenyans to stand firm in defense of their rights.
The threat of taking the Kenyan government to international courts has amplified the stakes in the ongoing confrontation between the state and opposition forces.
Karua's actions have also drawn international attention to the situation in Kenya, with human rights organizations closely monitoring developments.
The days leading up to the anniversary of the Constitution's promulgation could see a resurgence of protests, potentially escalating the already tense political atmosphere in the country.