Amnesty International Kenya has called for human rights to be prioritized in the diplomatic engagements between Kenya and the Netherlands, coinciding with the royal visit from March 18 to 20, 2025. The organization emphasizes the need to address human rights violations amid recent violent crackdowns on protests. Irungu Houghton stresses that both nations must outline a commitment to improving human rights during this significant visit.
Amnesty International Kenya is advocating for the prioritization of human rights discussions in the forthcoming diplomatic engagements between Kenya and the Netherlands. This appeal comes ahead of the scheduled state visit of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Máxima from March 18 to 20, 2025, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.
Irungu Houghton, the director of Amnesty International Section, emphasized the importance of addressing human rights violations during this diplomatic visit. He stated, “As Dutch authorities prepare for the official state visit to Kenya this week to intensify bilateral Dutch-Kenya relations, Amnesty International calls on both authorities to place human rights at the heart of the visit, address human rights violations and commit to accountability for all victims following the recent brutal crackdown on human rights.”
Houghton highlighted the context of the visit, which occurs after a series of violent incidents against peaceful demonstrators and noted the toll these events have taken. He remarked that police brutality in recent months has resulted in over 60 fatalities and the abduction of more than 80 activists, primarily youth, while emphasizing ongoing cases of torture and abductions.
The director further urged the attending Dutch ministers and the Royal Couple to ensure human rights issues are central to the discussions between Kenya and the Netherlands. Amnesty International has called on both governments to articulate a clear plan for improving human rights in Kenya during the visit, insisting that economic and military interests should not overshadow these fundamental issues.
This state visit follows an invitation from President William Ruto, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations. It underscores the solid cooperation and positive relations that exist, with the Netherlands keen on exploring new partnerships while enhancing current ties. Both countries serve as major hubs and maintain close economic relations, collaborating within international platforms on democracy, rule of law, and judicial independence.
Amnesty International has urged for a focused dialogue on human rights during the upcoming state visit by the Dutch Royal Couple to Kenya. This visit represents an important opportunity for both governments to reaffirm their commitment to human rights, amidst ongoing concerns regarding police brutality and activism suppression in Kenya. It is essential that economic interests do not eclipse the need for human rights accountability in diplomatic relations.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
