Defenders Coalition « Defenders Coalition

The National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders Kenya (Defenders Coalition) and the Working Group on HRDs in Kenya, which brings together CSOs, the United Nations, and development partners concerned with the protection of HRDs, will be hosting the Eight edition of the HRD Awards on 29th November 2024. The Awards aims to honor and publicly recognize the important work of HRDs in Kenya, by giving out awards to persons who have demonstrated great courage, innovation, and impact in the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The awards are presented in four categories: the Munir Mazrui Lifetime achievement award, the Human Rights Defender of the year Award, the upcoming Human Rights Defender of the year Award and the Global solidarity Award.

WHO QUALIFIES?

The Working group will recognize the contribution of HRDs who promote and protect human rights in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders.

Nominations are open to human rights defenders with demonstrable courage, innovation, and impact of their human rights work on the community. You can self-nominate or nominate an individual that you believe are deserving.

Please Note:

The shortlisting committee does not put into consideration the number of nominations received for an individual as a merit for the award. Shortlisting and selection is based solely on demonstrated impact and achievement.
The Working Group reserves the right to recall and/or revoke any Award given out to any recipient where in the even the recipient is found to have contravened the basic principles of human rights.

Click Here : Nomination Form-English

Click Here: Fomu Ya Uteuzi

Respect Citizens Right to Record Law Enforcement Officers – CFF PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE

NAIROBI, Kenya, April 4th, 2024 – Respect Citizens Right to Record Law Enforcement Officers.

Civic Freedoms Forum (CFF) through its members condemn the actions of Nairobi County Governor Jonson Sakaja ordering his law enforcement officers to arrest anyone seen filming of taking photos of officers on duty. Over the years, concern over brutality and other forms of misconduct by city askaris (kanjos) has led many citizens to record interactions with law enforcement.

Our Constitution 2010 envisages civilian oversight of the law enforcement to ensure accountability and professionalism by and among the officers. The basis of the right to record a police officer performing their duties is that each citizen has a right to discuss political matters and the performance of government officials. Citizens also have a right to access information regarding these topics. In other jurisdiction, including United Kingdom, where Kenya borrows most of its laws, any member of the public or media crews can film and photograph incidents in public places. Similarly, in United Stated the First Amendment protects the right to record officers in public so long as it does not interfere with the officer’s duties and is not done secretly. The French law also allows journalists and individuals to film or photograph the police in the public space and to publish the images.

The right to film or photograph the police is a key safeguard of human rights and civil liberties, particularly in situations that present a high risk of violations, such as stop-and-search operations, identity checks, or protests. It is public knowledge that filming the law enforcement in action is a way to de-escalate tensions and potential violence, as the officer is forced to behave in accordance with the law. The videos and photos also provide evidence to support victims’ claim against the officers in cases where abuse occur. In November 2021, Former Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai, while at a public forum acknowledged that police officers can be recorded while on duty so long as the person taking the photos or videos does not do so out of malice. The same rules apply to everyone including security guards, traffic marshals, county askaris, court bailiffs, the emergency services etc.

We, therefore, call upon Nairobi County Governor, Johnson Sakaja, to withdraw his order and apologize to Kenyans for the illegal, inhuman treatment of traders and innocent civilians by the city askaris.

Signed by

1	Article 19 Eastern Africa
2	Constitution and Reform Education Consortium – CRECO
3	Defenders Coalition
4	Independent Medico-Legal Unit – IMLU
5	InformAction TV
6	Initiative for Inclusive Empowerment – IIE
7	Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi!
8	Kenya Human Rights Commission – KHRC
9	Muslims for Human Rights – MUHURI
10	Partnerships 4 Empowerment and Networking in Kenya (PEN KENYA)

In the heart of Kakamega County, amidst the vibrant colors of International Women’s Day celebrations, stood a beacon of hope: Elizabeth Kingi, the Officer in Charge of Police Division (OCPD) from Kakamega Police Station. While radiating strength, she took the stage at the 5th Annual Ni Mama Event, igniting a fire of inspiration in the hearts of every woman present.

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Dressed not just in her official uniform, but also in the resolve to champion women’s rights, Elizabeth Kingi began her address with a call to unity. Her words echoed through the gathering, weaving empowerment and solidarity that knew no barriers of age, ethnicity, and background. In that moment, the women of Kakamega County became more than just individuals; they became a force, united in their quest for equality and justice.

With a voice as steady as her commitment, Elizabeth Kingi spoke of the significance of the occasion, acknowledging the struggles and triumphs of women throughout history. She emphasized the importance of women supporting each other, not just on International Women’s Day, but every day, in their journey towards equality and justice. Her words resonated deeply, echoing the sentiment of sisterhood and collaboration, reassuring the women present that they were not alone in their struggles.

As she spoke, Elizabeth Kingi’s passion for her cause became palpable, infusing the air with a sense of urgency. With each word, she painted a vision of a world where women could walk freely and live free from the shadows of fear and oppression. Her invitation for the attendees to visit her office was not just a gesture; it was a promise of support, a beacon of hope in a world often plagued by indifference.

Gratitude laced her words as she acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Defenders Coalition and the challenges faced by women in their daily lives. But it was her declaration, “Enough is enough. A woman must be protected. A woman must enjoy her rights,” that vibrated through the crowd, igniting a spark of determination in every heart.

In outlining the measures taken by the National Police Service to combat gender-based violence, Elizabeth Kingi laid the groundwork for a safer, more inclusive society. Her commitment to a victim-centered approach was not just a policy; it was a testament to her unwavering dedication to justice and empathy.

With keen detail, Elizabeth Kingi outlined the steps taken by the police to ensure prompt and professional handling of cases involving women. She spoke of the establishment of gender-based desks in every police station, specialized training for officers, and the provision of a conducive environment for victims to report their cases. Her words carried the weight of authority yet were heavy with compassion and understanding.

As the meeting ended, Elizabeth Kingi’s words lingered in the air, a promise of hope and change. In her, the women of Kakamega County found not just an ally, but a fearless leader—a beacon of light guiding them towards a future where every woman is respected, protected, and empowered.

In Kakamega’s history, Elizabeth Kingi’s name will be etched as more than just a police officer; she will be remembered as a trailblazer, a visionary, and a guardian of women’s rights. Her legacy will inspire generations to come, reminding them that with courage and unwavering determination, they too can shape a world were equality reigns supreme. Through her extraordinary leadership, Elizabeth Kingi has not only transformed the landscape of Kakamega County but has ignited a spark of change that will illuminate the path towards gender equality across Kenya and beyond.

Kickstarting my Journey to summit Point Uhuru on Mt Kilimanjaro in october 2024

What would Dennis Orengo’s grand debut in hiking be in his village? Well, he’s aiming to shake things up and make his folks burst with pride this October by conquering Mt. Kilimanjaro as part of the Climb for Justice Campaign! After all, he’s already shown off his hiking skills in Kakamega Forest, and he’s dead set on joining every preparatory hike

leading up to the final climb for justice destination this year Dennis – is a Human Rights Defender, fighting for the marginilazed and vulnerable groups like widows, children, refugees, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and even those unfortunate victims of extra-judicial

Let’s kick off with a fun question. If you were a mountain, which one would you be and why?

Well, if I were a mountain, I’d definitely be Mt. Kilimanjaro.It’s the African heritage and the uniting factor of Africa, aside from being the highest peak in Africa. Plus, during a recent trip to South Africa, I caught a glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s peak from the plane. But here’s the kicker: it was missing its iconic snow cap! Yet, just days later, my

buddy spotted it, complete with a fresh blanket of snow. Talk about resilience and global presence, right? Kilimanjaro’s enduring nature, with those ice caps standing tall, truly strikes a chord with me.

Impressive choice! Tell us about your first Climb for Justice hike experience.

Ah, 2020 in Kudu Hills – quite the experience! I’ll admit, I underestimated the terrain and paid for it. I finished the hike 3 hours later after everyone was done. But it taught me the importance of preparation and perseverance. This year, I plan to tackle every hike with gusto and summit Mt. Kilimanjaro!

At least be the first one in my village to get to that level(laughs)

What’s one thing you’re looking forward to the most on Mt. Kilimanjaro?

The challenge, definitely. It’s about being part of a group that believes in a risky yet noble cause. And the comradeship that comes with it is priceless.

Speaking of noble causes, why do you believe in the #BuyHakiBuild-Haki Campaign?

It’s simple – without the Defenders Coalition, our work as HRDs would be much harder. They’ve been a pillar of support, making advocacy more easier and accessible through their protection and safety mechanisms to

Human Rights Defenders. Joining this cause was my resolution for the year, and I’ve gained so much in the last 7 years from their wellness programs and training over the past seven years,then why not support raising funds for a home that will help more other people.

Now, let’s delve into your preparations for climbing Kilimanjaro.What’s your routine like?

Oh, it’s quite the regimen! I’m a sporty person . I start my day with a morning run to get the blood pumping, followed by daily vigorous exercises. Psyching up my mind is crucial, so I read about others’ experiences and also information about Kilimanjaro. And of course, a balanced diet is key.

Plus,to be the first from my village to summit adds a bit of extra motivation!(chuckles)

That’s dedication! How will you rally others to join you for the Climb for Justice cause?

Every month, I’ve committed that I’ll contribute to the cause with a small amount of ksh 100 or ksh 200, hoping it’ll add up to benefit Haki village, a project close to my heart. It’s the least I can do, given the incredible support we’ve received from the Defenders Coalition over the years. And I encourage others to pitch in, even if it means sacrificing a lunch or two!

Parting Shot

Let’s get one thing straight – Haki Village ain’t just some project for the Defenders Coalition to claim; it’s for all you Human Rights Defenders out there. So, fellow champions of justice, let’s roll up our sleeves and dig deep. This isn’t just a win for us today, but a legacy we’re leaving for the HRDs of tomorrow. Spread the word, grab some merchandise, and let’s march forward together because Haki Village isn’t just a place; it’s a unifying force that binds us all! See you in Kilimanjaro!Shall we?

Support Dennis Orengo by donating any amount via

Mpesa Paybill 810896

Accunt: ORENGO

ALARM OVER THE MURDER OF RURAL PASTORALIST WOMEN IN KARGI, MARSABIT COUNTY

Thursday, 22 February 2024, Nairobi Kenya

The Defenders Coalition, Samburu Women Trust (SWT) and the Pastoralists People’s Initiative (PPI) condemns a series of attacks of pastoralist women leading to the death and serious injuries. The latest victim, of Margaret Aleya Eisimonte, a resident of Rongumo Clan in Kargi area, Marsabit County

Margaret Aleya Eisimonte tragically died on 18 February 2024 following a serious beating allegedly by a group of Morans as instructed by elders from the Rendille Community.

It is alleged that a traditional medicine man (Mganga) was invited to the Rongumo clan to identify witches in the Manyatta, who in turn gave a list of women accusing them of the diabolic practices happening.

The pronouncement by the mganga, led to the brutal assault against Margaret Aleiya Esimonte by the Morans. Members of a nearby clan who learnt about the incident are then said to have responded by rushing Aleiya Esimonte to a local hospital where she succumbed. She was buried on 20^th February in Kargi Public Cemetery.

A second victim of the barbaric attack, Ms Wareheya Sahado, is said to be recuperating after receiving a barbaric beating targeting her private parts by the same morans. Although discharged from the hospital, she has to make several trips to the hospital for specialized care.

Margaret Super, a woman human rights defender from Marsabit, has expressed the fear that more women are likely to be attacked and killed.

“We are shocked by this occurrence. This is murder and the murderers are walking free, and this is unacceptable. We do not know the number of women on that list by the Mganga and we fear that more women will be targeted for assault and murder just like Aleya.”

Margaret said that this is a strange incident that calls for the attention of all relevant agencies in Marsabit to bring the perpetrators to book.

Jane Meriwas, the Executive Director, Samburu Women Trust has described the incident as one of the many that remains unreported and the perpetrators walk scot free.

“We are concerned that this is a purely femicide issue because it is only women that are accused and targeted for alleged witchcraft. We are worried that if not stopped, the moran will come for the woman who survived the attack or even go for other women! We are not safe here!’ expressed Meriwas.

Kamau Ngugi in concerned killing of women is on the rise in Kenya and the authorities appear uncorned. Over 20 cases of femicide were recorded in 2024.

“This unfortunate incident highlights the pervasive nature of violence against women. The death of Aleya is an example of the price that women in poor rural settings pay for just being women. It must be condemned.”

Defenders Coalition calls on all agencies to heed the call by the Government Advisor on Gender issue Ms Chiggai to fight the creeping culture of killing women.

The Defenders Coalition strongly condemns these acts of untold violence against poor rural women in Marsabit and calls on:

President of the Republic of Kenya to publicly condemn violence against women in Kenya pronounce itself to this concerning national tragedy and demand accountability:
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to thoroughly investigate the matter, arrest all perpetrators and ensure their prosecution;
The Inspector General of Police to guarantee the safety and security of rural women in Marsabit, specifically those from Rongumo Clan;
The Public to abhor such crimes, report such occurrences to the relevant authority for accountability purposes and stand with the victims and survivors.

Signed

Kamau Ngugi – Executive Director, Defenders Coalition.

Jane Meriwas – Executive Director, Samburu Women Trust (SWT)

Margaret Super – Founder Pastoralists People’s Initiative (PPI)

Name of Organization: National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders – Kenya

Observer Status Number:

Situation of Human Rights Defenders in Kenya

Submitted by: Kamau Ngugi– Executive Director

76^th Ordinary Session of the Africa Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights

Arusha, Tanzania

Public Session

Human Rights Situation in Africa

October 2023

Mr. Chair, distinguished commissioners and state delegates representatives of NHRIs and NGOs.

On behalf of the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders -Kenya (Defenders Coalition), I would like to thank the Commission for this opportunity to raise some of the key human rights concerns from Kenya. Human Rights Defenderss play a critical role in any given community as they contribute to the protection and promotion as well as the realization of fundamental rights and freedoms. In 1998, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the UN Declaration on HRDs that recognizes the right and responsibility of individuals, groups and organs of society to promote and protect universally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms[1]. Further, the Declaration bestows the responsibility of implementation of provisions of the Declaration, with specific reference to Articles 2, 9, 12, 14 and 15.

Regionally, Resolutions ACHPR /Res.69(XXXV)04[2] and ACHPR/Res.196 (L) 11[3] recognises the critical role of HRDs in democracies and the difficult environment in which HRDs in Africa operate and Resolution ACHPR/Res.245 (LIV) 13[4] on the challenges that women defenders continue to face on the African continent regarding the recognition, exercise and enjoyment of their rights. These resolutions call for states to put in place protection of human rights defenders in Africa.

Despite the existence of this legal frameworks in support of HRDs in Africa which includes Kenya, Defenders Coalition is concerned that the legitimate role of protection and promotion of human rights carried on by human rights defenders and Civil Society Organizations is habitually criminalized and remain target for reprisal by both state and non-state actors. Particularly attacks against women human rights defenders, sexual minority activists, environmentalists and those working on business and human rights issues have escalated. Accountability for these violations remain unaddressed as mandated oversight institutions are unable, for various reasons, to investigate, prosecute and serve justice to the victims and survivors.

Below are documented incidences of violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms of human rights defenders in Kenya:

Right to life

The prevailing hostile operating environment in Kenya led to the murder of three HRDs. In April 2023, an activist was killed by bandits for confronting them about their continuous banditry attacks on neighbouring communities[5]. An activist litigating on behalf of victims of rape and coercion to sex for work after an expose by BBC Africa in one of Kenya’s multinational tea estates was found dead in his home[6]. A sexual minority activist, Edwin Chiloba was brutally murdered, and his body dumped in a metal box by the roadside[7].

The Situation of Human Rights Defenders

Concerning incidents of crackdowns and criminalization of civil society of HRDs is on the rise. Sinece January 2023, three (3) activists have been killed[8]. Seven (7) HRDs have been either arrested, detained or are facing trumped up criminal charges in courts of law. Sexual minority and WHRDs continue to face untold violence. There killing of WHRDs Joannah Stutchbury, Elizabeth Ekaru and Sheila Lumumba remain unresolved despite intensified advocacy efforts.[9] The only known arrest following the killing of Elizabeth Ekaru.

Freedom of the media, access to information and expression

According to the 2023 Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, Kenya ranks position 116 out of 180, a significant drop from the position 69 recorded in 2022[10]. The situation is worsening in what appears as a campaign to cripple independent media and individual journalists through a combination of commercial, verbal, and physical attacks[11]. Targeted are media and journalists perceived to be real or imagined critics of the new administration with reports that independent media houses are under pressure to fire certain journalists and employees.The violation on media professionals including journalists was on the rise during the period with verbal and physical attacks being documented. The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) documented 45 incidences of profiling of and threats to individual journalists and media outlets by politicians related to 2022 General Election in Kenya. By March 2023, the MCK least 25 reporters were attacked by both members of the public and the state.[12]

Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and Rights to Protest

In 2023, the Defenders Coalition has documented 61 cases of illegal restrictions and criminalization of human rights defenders exercising their freedom of Assembly[13] and arrested and unlawfully detained hundreds of citizens for taking part in anti-government protests. To this end, we are concerned that there is an onslaught on the freedom of assembly, specifically by state security agencies by use limiting legislative laws such as the Public Order Management Act, 2012^[14] and Penal Code. Human rights defenders (HRDs) and other peaceful protesters are arbitrarily arrested by the police, unlawfully detained for long periods and charged with trumped up criminal charges besides brutalization and murder by security agencies[15]. Journalists have also been victims of this onslaught. Among the most affected counties are Kisumu, Migori, Nairobi, Makueni, Kajiado, Nakuru and Mombasa.

In light of these updates and observations, we urge the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to:

Call on the Kenyan government earnestly concludes the investigations to the murder of Joannah Stutchbury, the findings be made public, and the perpetrators persecuted.
Call on the Kenyan government to cease arbitrary arrests and suppression of Human Rights Defenders and civil society organizations who work towards ensuring that Kenya promotes and protects human rights as stipulated in the constitution. The judicial process should not be used as a tool for suppressing CSOs and HRDs.
Come up with a resolution to compel the government of Kenya to ensure safety and security of human rights defenders in Kenya through the application of systematically legal provisions that promote and protect human rights and establish mechanisms that protect human rights defenders such as the model human rights defender’s policy[16].
Call on the Kenyan government to ensure strong public statements recognizing the legitimate and important role of HRDs and that all alleged attacks against human rights defenders are promptly and thoroughly investigated and persecution through judicial processes dropped.
Call on the Kenyan government to implement the direction by the African Court respecting the rights of the Ogiek Indigenous People of Mau Forest in Kenya. Failure to implement the judgement continues to subject the community to unnecessary suffering.

[1] https://documents-dds-ny.un.org/doc/UNDOC/GEN/N99/770/89/PDF/N9977089.pdf?OpenElement

[2] http://hrlibrary.umn.edu/africa/resolutions/rec74.html

[3] https://achpr.au.int/index.php/en/adopted-resolutions/196-resolution-human-rights-defenders-africa-achprres196l2011

[4] https://achpr.au.int/en/adopted-resolutions/558-resolution-need-study-situation-human-rights-defenders

[5] https://nation.africa/kenya/counties/baringo/bandits-target-baringo-activists-in-killing-spree-4200638

[6] https://nation.africa/kenya/news/activist-in-tea-firms-sexual-abuse-case-found-dead-at-home-4172544

[7] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-64229077

[8] https://nation.africa/kenya/counties/baringo/bandits-target-baringo-activists-in-killing-spree-4200638

[9] https://srdefenders.org/kenya-concerns-killing-of-environmental-defender-joannah-stutchbury/

[10] https://rsf.org/en/index

[11] https://defenderscoalition.org/media-freedom-under-siege-in-kenya/

[12] https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/news/journalists-punched-kicked-and-tear-gassed-inside-darkest-month-kenyan-media