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Stand With REDHAC: Defending Civic Space and Human Rights in Cameroon
AfricanDefenders and its network members and partners are deeply concerned and disturbed by recent news of the unjustifiable imposition of a restriction on the Network of Human Rights Defenders in Central Africa (REDHAC) to operate throughout Cameroon. AfricanDefenders and all its member networks believe this decision is unfounded and based on misleading and non-factual information.
An official letter signed by Cameroon’s Minister of Territorial Administration states that: ‘The association known as the “Central African Human Rights Defenders Network” (REDHAC) is null and void for lack of authorisation and activities likely to undermine the integrity of the national financial system’.
Such decisions and allegations appear to be part of a disinformation campaign. They contradict the recent amendments and reforms acknowledged by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) regarding non-profit organizations (NPOs).
We strongly and unequivocally reject these unfounded concerns about financial integrity. We firmly believe that the Cameroonian authorities’ move aims to undermine REDHAC’s critical work in Central Africa and Cameroon.
“The erosion of civic space in Cameroon has reached alarming levels, with repressive measures and unlawful administrative decisions becoming a distressing norm. These tactics undermine the fundamental rights and freedoms that are the backbone of any democratic society. We strongly condemn these actions and draw Cameroon’s financial partners to stand firm against the State’s suppression of civil society organizations (CSOs),” Says Hassan Shire, Chairperson of Pan-African Human Rights Defenders Network and Executive Director of DefendDefenders
Despite the October 2023 Best Practices Guide to States released by the FATF, which was designed to protect relevant NPOs and ensure legitimate activities are not disrupted, the Minister of Territorial Administration of Cameroon has chosen to implement the poor practices highlighted in the FATF’s recommendations.
Administrative decisions must be firmly grounded in existing laws, policies, and procedures. They cannot be made arbitrarily; a solid and justifiable legal foundation is imperative. The arbitrary suspension of REDHAC, executed without prior notice, is without lawful basis and constitutes a violation of the freedom of association stipulated in Cameroonian law and international human rights law. This decision directly undermines the crucial work of human rights defenders who advocate for rights and freedoms.
Legal channels and appropriate investigative agencies must operate strictly within the law if there are suspicions of wrongdoing. In the absence of evidence, as is clearly the case with REDHAC, the suspension of all their activities must be lifted immediately.
This decision equally unduly disrupts and discourages REDHAC’s legitimate activities. It goes against Cameroon’s obligations under the United Nations Charter, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the guidelines of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights on Freedom of Association and Assembly in Africa.
“The state repression in Cameroon has reached a turning point, contrary to its commitments under international laws and standards. Systemic attacks have targeted journalists, civil society organizations, and pro-democracy activists. Such regression indicates that the days ahead are bleak,” says Prof Adriano Nuvunga, Chairperson of the Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network.
We recognize and appreciate the profound impact of REDHAC’s efforts, particularly in the context of restricted civic space in Cameroon. REDHAC’s work is of the utmost importance, as it positively contributes to human rights advocacy in Central Africa and offers hope in the fight for fundamental rights and freedoms.
‘Human Rights Defenders play a vital role in protecting and advocating for human rights and freedoms as outlined in laws and international treaties. These rights are fundamental and should not be arbitrarily limited. The suspension of REDHAC comes amidst rising reports of human rights violations, including silencing, intimidation, and harassment, which is a troubling trend that requires international attention. We particularly stand in solidarity with our sister Maximilliene Ngo Mbe, during this period,” says Mary Pais, Co-Director African Initiative of Women Human Rights Defenders
We condemn any intimidation move by the Cameroonian authorities, including administrative summonses and threatening statements.
Therefore, we urge the minister to reconsider this decision and engage in a constructive dialogue with REDHAC. This dialogue is key to resolving the current situation and ensuring REDHAC’s work continues.
“Those in authority positions have the responsibility to ensure that rights and freedoms are respected and protected. Human rights are not just words; they reflect people’s hopes for dignity and humanity. Protecting these rights is a collective obligation, including that of the State. An injustice against one is an injustice against all,” says Kamau Ngugi, Chairperson of East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Network
We call on the Cameroonian authorities to adhere to the commonly agreed-upon best practices paper by FAFT. This document provides clear examples of poor practices to avoid. It offers guidance on implementing measures proportional to assessed risks without imposing undue burdens on the non-profit sector. END
For more information, contact :
Joseph Bikanda: JosephB@africandefenders.org
Prof. Adriano Nuvunga: adriano.nuvunga@cddmoz.org
Mary Pais Da Silva : mary@whrdinitiative.africa
Nicolas Agostini: nicolasa@defenddefenders.org
25th November being the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, marks the commencement of the 16 days of activism against all forms of gender-based violence against women and girls. During this period, collective voices are raised to air the plight of women and girls calling for the end of all forms of gender-based violence to include, physical, emotional and psychological against them. In addition, states are especially tasked with putting in place effective measures to curb the increase of GBV and to eliminate the same in totality. Unfortunately, we have not been successful in curbing these vices in totality as more and more cases of GBV to include SGBV continue to be reported, this is despite the fact of having in places laws that address some of these unfortunate issues.
What is more concerning to me as the 16 days commence, is the nature in which femicide cases are being addressed in this country. Femicide, the intentional killing of women based on their gender, becomes one of the worst forms of gender-based violence women and girls experience. Femicide Count Kenya, an organisation dedicated to tracking femicide cases in Kenya, recorded that at least 500 women were victims of femicide between 2017 and 2024. Although this is what has been reported, there is a likelihood that there are more cases which have not been brought to light. This is year alone, in three months between August and October it was reported that 97 women had been killed. In a period of three months, that is a very significant number and cannot just be ignored. The discovery of women’s decomposing and dismembered bodies in Kware area, Mathare was harrowing. The recent attempted murder of Florence Wanjiku in Nakuru County, having been stubbed 18 times and her some of the fingers chopped of depicts a picture of society that cares less about women and the violence they endure.
Women in this country and those who care about women’s rights have marched, held rallies, drafted petitions and even started movements to address and end femicide in the country. Despite the call to have femicide declared a national disaster, the same remains to be seen, a mirage at a distance. One of the asks and which I support fully is the criminalisation of femicide in totality, the same is yet to be fully addressed. It is rather unfortunate that despite calls for action to be taken, women and girls have been killed while their perpetrators continue to walk free. Where is the justice for all those women who have lost their lives in some very inhumane ways. For those prosecuted and convictions upheld, have been a result of collective noise from the public and civil society. People cannot seat back, arms folded while victims have no justice and families left with deep wounds, they only are aware of. We need to see more prosecution of perpetrators of femicide even as we discuss its criminalisation. The numbers mentioned above are actual women, not just figures, whose lives were cut short because someone felt they could. It cannot be business as usual as such atrocities continue being witnessed in our present times.
The appointment of the 12 members committee to develop policies on femicide in sports and the country is rather reactionary rather purposeful, this can be viewed as the sacrifice offered to appease the ‘gods’. Femicide is not a foreign concept in Kenya, it has been present. Unfortunately, despite this fact, little to nothing has been done to curb it and especially from the states side. The development of polices and laws is one thing and the implementation is another. There is need for clear and proper commitment from the government, all arms of it, to comprehensively address femicide once and for all. Women are tired of marching and demanding for the respect and protection of their human rights, they can only shout so loud and jump so high. We cannot be waiting for more women to be killed, or 16 days of activism to raise these concerns. There must be deliberate and demonstratable efforts to address and end femicide in Kenya.
Wallace M Nderu, Advocate of the High Court and Research and Advocacy Advisor, Defenders Coalition
Winners of the 2024 Human Rights Defenders Announced in Nairobi
The Working Group on Human Rights Defenders, in collaboration with the Defenders Coalition and the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya, extends its warm congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Human Rights Defenders Awards (#HRDAwardKE). The awards ceremony, held on November 29, 2024, in Nairobi, recognized individuals who have demonstrated exceptional courage, creativity, resilience, innovation, commitment, and selflessness in advancing human rights and social justice in Kenya.
These awards aim to inspire and encourage ordinary citizens to actively engage in their communities by speaking truth to power and championing constitutionalism. Since their establishment nine years ago, the HRD Awards have honored extraordinary individuals who relentlessly advocate for human rights. This year, six defenders were celebrated for their groundbreaking contributions in four categories:
Below is the complete list of winners in each category:
Upcoming Human Rights Defender of the Year Award
In recognition of your exemplary contribution towards the promotion and protection of mental health rights in Kisumu County and beyond.
Human Rights Defender of the Year Award
In recognition of your exemplary courage, consistency, innovation, and creativity in advancing good governance, constitutionalism, rule of law, and the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Kenya.
In recognition of your exemplary courage, contribution towards the promotion and protection of human rights and access to justice for survivors and families of victims of rights violations in Kenya.
In recognition of your exemplary dedication to the promotion and protection of human rights, public accountability and integrity in Kenya.
Munir Mazrui Lifetime Achievement Award
In recognition of your courage, extraordinary resilience and trailblazing leadership in transforming personal loss into a powerful solidarity and advocacy network for families of victims of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and police brutality in Kenya’s informal settlements. (Posthumous)
Global Solidarity Award
In recognition of your inspiration and solidarity with global struggles against human rights violations, imperialism, racial discrimination and inequality across the globe.
Popular vote Award
In recognition of your outstanding courage, integrity in public service and standing for public good.
ABOUT THE HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS AWARDS
Advocating for the respect of Human Rights is high risk. Groups and individuals who walk this road are often the targets for reprisals by authorities and private groups who make use of various forms of repression to silence them. The “Declaration of the Rights and Responsibility of individuals, groups and organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms” was adopted in December 1998 and defines these advocates as human rights defenders.
The Defenders Coalition and the Working group on Human Rights Defenders (WGHRD) have played a pioneering role in the protection and recognition of human rights defenders.The WGHRD launched the inaugural Human Rights Defenders(HRD) awards in 2016 to:
Boniface Mwangi activated the Finance Bill protests of 2024, on a personal level. Soon after, activists and individuals from all walks of life, in various parts of the country, joined in championing for better governance of the country. Eventually, the government withdrew the Finance Bill and a new gave of holding government accountable has been witnessed since.
But, this is just one of the significant achievements in Mwangi’s life. He epitomises a just society.
Mwangi is synonymous with the fight against social injustice, impunity, corruption, and bad governance. He has remained steadfast in his commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights, even in the face of threats and intimidation. Mwangi has fearlessly defended victims of injustice, putting his own safety at risk. He believes in the inherent right of every human being to justice, equity, and freedom.
At 41, Mwangi has been arrested numerous times for his activism. His commitment to social change has also come with a heavy price for his family, who have faced harassment and threats. The escalation of these hostilities has seen him threatened with harm and/or death by forces in government. Despite these challenges, he remains undeterred.
Mwangi’s journey as an activist began after the 2007 post-election violence, which he witnessed firsthand as a newspaper photographer. The trauma of covering such horrific events, perpetuated by the same politicians he was reporting on, fueled his desire for change.
His first initiative, Picha Mtaani, was a traveling street exhibition showcasing photographs of the 2007 violence. This project aimed to spark dialogue and promote national healing. Subsequently, Mwangi launched initiatives like MaVulture and Team Courage, focusing on fighting impunity, challenging corrupt leadership, and advocating for peace. In 2010, Mwangi founded PAWA 254, an organization that uses art to address social issues and empower communities. PAWA leverages the power of art to raise awareness, inspire change, and promote positive development.
Mwangi’s tireless efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including the CNN Multichoice Africa Photojournalist of the Year Award, the Prince Claus Laureate, and recognition from Time magazine as a Next Generation Leader.
He leverages his social media influence to address social ills and to inspire everyday Kenyans to aspire for a greater, better nation. His denunciations of corruption and impunity are strident convictions. Mwangi continues to wage a spirited campaign against oppressive establishments.
Although at one point he stood alone, today, Mwangi has created a movement – inspired by his vision and consistency – adding their voices to champion for a better Kenya.
Noor Bashir Shuria is a human rights defender who, for close to a decade, has dedicated his life advocating for human rights and fundamental freedoms while based in Garissa, northern Kenya.
Noor’s awakening on human rights advocacy came following the terror incidents in Ijiara and Hulugho Sub Counties when the towns experienced violent retaliation from both security forces and Al Shabaab militia, leading to a rise in arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. Witnessing the pain and suffering of the victims’ families motivated the 31-year-old to monitor, document, report and follow up on such cases, which are rampant in Garissa County.
As a human rights defender, Noor work includes civil and political rights, pushing for the freedoms of assembly, association, and expression. He firmly believes that citizens should be able to exercise their rights as enshrined in the law, advocating for reforms and accountability in a country struggling with resource wastage, poor governance, and diminishing accountability. He recognizes that socio-economic rights are equally important, actively promoting the right to health and education. Noor asserts that a healthy and educated population is empowered and capable of withstanding challenges and adversities.
The conversation around environmental protection and climate justice is also integral to Noor’s work. He acknowledges the importance of a clean and healthy environment, incorporating environmental rights into his advocacy efforts. He emphasizes that refugees, migrants, and displaced persons also have rights and freedoms, which must be upheld within existing legal frameworks. This focus leads him to address the plight of displaced individuals and seek ways to facilitate their integration into communities and broader society.
Noor takes pride in his work and has strategically employed various methods to ensure that his efforts are meaningful. He emphasizes the importance of research and documentation, recognizing that data is critical for effective advocacy. Additionally, through lobbying and engagement, he has successfully connected with diverse policymakers and duty bearers, including regional and international mechanisms. By raising public awareness, utilizing social media, and conducting community outreach programs, he has engaged with the community and empowered them through accurate information dissemination. His partnerships and networks further strengthen his mission of promoting and protecting rights and fundamental freedoms.
Despite challenges such as the vast area he covers, limited resources, and a lack of recognition from local administration, Noor is proud of the successes he has achieved. Although they may seem small, Noor celebrates victories in community empowerment, policy reforms, increased awareness, and some legal achievements. He draws inspiration from survivor stories, grassroots movements, and collaborations with like-minded individuals. He acknowledges that his Bachelor’s degree in Community Development from Garissa University has played a crucial role in his work, noting that timely interventions in cases involving security forces have averted potential catastrophes.
Currently, as a practicing paralegal, Noor is committed to ensuring access to justice for victims of various injustices, including extrajudicial killings within Garissa County, despite facing significant security threats and cultural barriers in his human rights work.
Noor’s contributions have earned him several certificates in recognition of his role as a community watchdog, as well as multiple paralegal and human rights defender awards. His unwavering commitment to justice, loyalty, compassion, and support for legal aid services has garnered him respect across diverse backgrounds and faiths, making him a beloved figure both in Garissa and beyond.
Peaceful protests are recognized as potent advocacy tools that enable protesters to express dissatisfaction with current situations and assert demands for social, political and economic change. The conspicuous nature of protests and the accompanying public pressure gives them the potency to prompt policymakers to take tangible steps and actions to address the grievances raised.
Th right to protest has been cherished in Kenya, both during the colonial era and after independence. In the current constitution, the right to protest is protected in article 37 which stipulates that ‘every person has a right, peaceably and unarmed to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket and to present petitions to public authorities’. Despite this, the enjoyment of this right is still often routinely curtailed by the state and state agents. Although both male and female human rights defenders (HRDs) bear the brunt of the state and state agents as the latter clamp down, often violently, on protestors’ rights to peaceful protest, women, children and other vulnerable groups and minorities suffer disproportionately whether directly or indirectly when compared to men. This study was thus conducted to examine this gendered nature of the right to protest in Kenya from the experiences and perspectives of women human rights defenders (WHRDs).
This project employed a cross-sectional mixed-method study design involving qualitative and quantitative methodologies comprising of surveys (quantitative) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) qualitative)) with WHRDs.
This study confirmed that WHRDS have been active participants peaceful protests with over 80% of them having engaged in peaceful protests in the last two years. Less than half of them however participated in the protests that were organized by the opposition parties in 2023 against the cost of living. Among the reasons for their lack of participation were unavailability, lack of interest, fear of police brutality, the politicization of the protests, fear of arrests and lack of security for the protests. In their last engagement in protests, 39% stated they were violently dispersed by police. A third of the WHRDs stated that they were arrested and or detained, with a similar percentage stating that they fell ill or got injured during the protests. 46% of the WHRDs observed there was insufficient police security during the protests, which exposed them to harassment by agent saboteurs within protests who joined the demonstrations with ulterior motives, such as to rob protestors or even rape women. In spite of the difficulties encountered during the protests, over 70% of the WHRDs stated that they would still participate in peaceful protests in future.
Most of the WHRDs reported that they had the approval and support of their spouses, close family members, community and society in general to participate in peaceful protests. 40% of the WHRDs stated that the law enforcement agents did not support their participation in peaceful protests while 15 % were unsure of what the position of the law enforcement agents was with respect to their participation in peaceful protests.
Most of the WHRDs cherished and defended their rights to participate in peaceful protests. However two key challenges remained unresolved: insecurity and the sexualization of their activities by law enforcement agents. Most of them observed that there was inadequate security for them during the protests which exposed them to criminal gangs disguised as protestors.
The primary responsibility for ensuring effective protection and a safe enabling environment for women human rights defenders during protests lies with the state. The state must work with WHRDs and other institutions and mechanisms to strengthen legal, policy, administrative and institutional frameworks to ensure effective protection of women during protests. Moreover, civil society organizations that support and promote civil liberties should identify and recognize the specific gendered needs of women human rights defenders and refrain from taking a general approach to the protection of human rights defenders.
Hanifa Safia is a fearless young woman who has emerged as a powerful voice against injustice. Through social media, she has rallied young people to rise up against poor governance, corruption, and the misuse of public funds. Her pivotal role in the Finance Bill 2024 protests has made her a prominent figure in the fight for change.
Hanifa’s passion for human rights, though, began in her childhood. Even as a young girl, she often stood up for her peers, in and out of classroom, in instances where they couldn’t. She later witnessed firsthand injustices faced by women and marginalized communities which ignited her determination to fight for a more equitable society.
Hanifa has dedicated her life to advocating for the marginalized and vulnerable, particularly those living in low-income communities. She has led numerous campaigns, including bringing an end the draining of a raw sewer in Korogocho slums, which had been going on for over 30 years. Through a three-month social media campaign on X (formerly Twitter), she successfully pressured authorities to rectify the issue – which among other factors, posed health risks to nearby residents, especially children. Hanifa was also instrumental in reclaiming land grabbed from a children’s home in Ridgeway Area.
Besides, Hanifa has organized successful fundraising campaigns to support victims with most notable ones being raising funds to cater for hospital bills for victims and families (all over Kenya) affected during the Finance Bill demonstrations. Additionally, earlier in the year, she led a drive to raise money for families affected by floods.
Hanifa’s unwavering belief in the power of individual action has led to significant positive change. Her story is a testament to the impact that one person can make when they are committed to making a difference.
However, as with many human rights defenders, it has not been a rosy journey. She often tries to navigate the complexities of public opinion, balancing constructive criticism with unwarranted negativity. While some may view her as a hero, others may dismiss her as intrusive or overly involved. Yet, Hanifa’s unwavering commitment to justice and her understanding of the issues at hand have kept her motivated. By building trust and fostering a supportive community, she has created a space where people can connect and address injustice together. This spirit echoes that of historical figures like Wangu wa Makeri and Mekatili wa Menza, who refused to be silenced in their pursuit of a better society.
Hanifa believes that one of the most pressing human rights issues facing the country is the mistreatment of women and girls. She is particularly concerned about the lack of justice for victims of rape and sexual abuse. To illustrate this point, Hanifa shared a case where she assisted a mother whose 10-year-old daughter was raped by a Quran teacher in Mandera. While the case is ongoing, the perpetrator remains free and continues to harass the victim’s mother.
Hanifa is a symbol of hope for young people. Her unwavering dedication to human rights inspires others to stand up against injustice and strive for a better future.
Hussein Khalid is a towering figure in Kenya’s human rights landscape. When discussing human rights and fundamental freedoms in Kenya, his is a name that cannot be overlooked. A distinguished human rights defender and lawyer, Khalid has been a pivotal figure in the country’s post-independence journey, tirelessly advocating for the protection of rights and freedoms. Despite facing intimidation and threats, he remains unwavering in his commitment to this cause.
With over 25 years of experience in civil society, Khalid’s work is centered on empowering individuals and communities. His journey began at CLARION, where he gained invaluable experience in community mobilization, human rights training, and community empowerment. This foundation laid the groundwork for his subsequent work with organizations like Youth Agenda, NCEC, and CRECO.
Khalid’s career took a significant turn when he joined the Kenya Human Rights Commission and was seconded to the Muslim for Human Rights (MUHURI). During his decade-long tenure at MUHURI, he played a crucial role in raising awareness of human rights issues in the Coast region, contributing significantly to the development of contemporary human rights advocacy in the area.
In pursuit of justice, Khalid founded HAKI Africa, where he spearheaded groundbreaking work, including addressing the killings and disappearances of victims of counter-terrorism. This bold stance led to the blacklisting of HAKI Africa and MUHURI by the government. Undeterred, Khalid continued his work, taking on major cases like the River Tana killings, River Yala killings, and the Shakahola massacre.
Khalid’s interests extend to gender issues, free media, community building, peace promotion, sexual minority rights, social justice, governance, mental health, land and environmental rights, digital rights, access to justice, police reforms, and movement building. His dedication to human rights is motivated by a desire to create a just and free society where rights and freedoms are respected. His significant contributions include:
Khalid’s unwavering commitment to human rights has not been without its challenges. He has faced government attacks and suppression of his work, numerous arrests in various towns and involutary displacement (forced to seek safety in safe houses locally due to threats to his life). However, his resilience and persistence have allowed him to overcome these obstacles.
Currently, as the CEO of VOCAL Africa, Khalid is focused on building a pan-African movement, coordinating local voices to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. Throughout his career, Khalid has fearlessly confronted human rights abuses.
His legacy as a fearless advocate for human rights continues to inspire and motivate others to strive for a more just and equitable world.
As President William Ruto prepares to present his State of the Nation Address to the joint sitting of Parliament on Thursday November 21, 2024, we wish to issue this People’s SoTN report to help Kenyans understand that the President’s report shall largely be a PR address to tick boxes as required by Article 132 of the Constitution.
Article 132 (1) c) requires that the President Shall once every year
This report comes at a time when nearly 75% of Kenyans believe that the country is headed in the wrong direction and 70% believe that the President is the most responsible for the wrong direction the country is headed (Infotrak). Every sector of the political economy of our country is worse off now than it was when President William Ruto was sworn in in September 2022.
The main reason the country is headed in the wrong direction is because Kenya has a president who does not listen to the people of Kenya, acts in violation of the Constitution and is hellbent on emasculating Kenyan institutions and people so that he can rule over us rather than govern as a servant leader. As the leaders of the Civil Society Organizations and community in Kenya we therefore fully endorse the communique issued by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops on November 14th, 2024 because the Bishops spoke for all Kenyans.
The dropping of cases brought against corrupt public officials in the Ruto regime stinks to the high heavens. The cases of mega corruption under the Ruto regime are dizzying. For example, the Edible oil scandal, and Adani deals, among others for which to date
there has been no action. Anti-corruption agencies, specifically the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), seem to have run out of energy, direction or belief in the fight against corruption.
Kenya is a signatory to a number of treaties which touch on the aforementioned issues raised in this statement, moreover;
transparent, not open. This move could shield the foundation from accountability and set a troubling precedent for other foreign organizations seeking similar privileges.
Kenya needs a government that upholds the constitution, the rule of law, respects the people of Kenya and serves the interests of the Kenyan people. We believe that the Ruto administration has lost direction. This administration can not be trusted with upholding the national interest. Kenyans need an alternative voice that can keep the government on check now that ODM has joined the Ruto administration in full. Kenyans need to be treated with dignity and their voices must be respected. Kenyans need to get and see the value of their taxes through prudent, transparent and accountable expenditure. Kenyans need to be respected not to be subjected to fear of reprisals for their divergent views. We are ready to work with our religious leaders and other sector leaders to TAKE OUR COUNTRY BACK from these group of officials who have decided to serve themselves and auction our country to foreigners and private individuals.
It’s generally understood that government employees are expected to maintain allegiance to the government. This loyalty often precludes public dissent against government policies or actions. However, Jackson Kuria, a Prison Officer popularly known as Corporal Shakur, defied this expectation. He chose to prioritize human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Kuria’s courageous stance gained national attention during the Finance Bill 2024 protests (popularly recognised as Gen-Z protest). Despite the risk of losing his job as a prison warden, he publicly advocated for accountability and good governance while in his official uniform. His actions demonstrated remarkable courage, resilience and a deep-rooted belief in the importance of speaking truth to power.
Kuria’s motivation stems from a desire to protect the rights of all Kenyans, especially those who have not violated any laws. Notably, he has actively pushed for investigations into cases of enforced disappearances which became widespread as a result of the Finance Bill 2024. He is pleased that some individuals have been found, and investigations into related deaths are ongoing.
Kuria’s unwavering dedication to justice and human rights has not come without challenges. He has faced interdiction from work, persecution, surveillance, and intimidation from government officials. Yet, these obstacles have only strengthened his resolve. His resilience, commitment, and unwavering spirit serve as an inspiration to others to stand up for justice, the rule of law, good governance, and human rights.