Several leading Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Kenya have denied allegations that they are funding the ongoing anti-government protests.
In a joint press statement released on Saturday, July 20, 2024, the organizations criticized the government’s recent accusations that they are funding and supporting unlawful behaviour and unruly protests.
“We categorically deny the allegations that Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) fund protests in Kenya. Our work is transparent, accountable, and solely focused on promoting human rights and justice for all Kenyans,” they dec;ared.
Adding
“We categorically repudiate these unfounded accusations and reiterate our call for the government to remain true to the constitution and protect independent civil society organizations and media in Kenya.”
The organizations noted their longstanding commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance.
“For decades, Civil Society Organizations in Kenya have been the backbone of our nation, tirelessly safeguarding democratic values and principles, amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring the rights of all Kenyans are upheld,” the statement read.
Adding;
“Their contributions have been instrumental in our nation’s growth and stability, and their efforts have consistently upheld the principles of justice and democracy.”
The CSOs highlighted their recent efforts to address issues of public finance management, human rights, and governance, which have been central to the ongoing protests.
“In the last three months, civil society and the media have engaged robustly in pushing for public finance management accountability, including public debt, protection of human rights, especially freedom of expression and the right to assemble, including protest, active citizenship, end of extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, abductions, and even theft of public resources,” the statement read in part.
CSOs said they have played a crucial role in Kenya’s development, providing legal aid, medical assistance, and psychosocial support to those affected by the crisis.
They condemned any unlawful acts during protests, emphasizing that their work should not be misconstrued as supporting violence.
“The allegations that CSOs are complicit in promoting illegal activities are false and undermine the invaluable work they do to strengthen our society,” they asserted.
CSOs defend Gen Zs
The organizations also defended the activism of Gen Z, against claims that they are being funded to protest.
“The suggestion that young people, particularly the GenZ, are being funded to speak up and use their voices devalues their genuine contributions to Kenya’s development,” they said.
Adding;
“Young Kenyans have shown remarkable dedication and initiative in advocating for positive change. Their voices are not just essential but inspiring in shaping the future of our nation, and they deserve to be heard and respected.”
They also expressed alarm over the violent crackdowns, abductions, and disappearances of Kenyans who have spoken out against the state of governance and human rights in the country.
It called for the protection of civic space and the right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Kenyan constitution.
The CSOs reiterated their commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, urging the government to respect their role in the nation’s progress.
“We stand in solidarity with the civil society organizations that continue to champion these values, and we urge the government to recognize and respect their indispensable role in our nation’s progress.”
The CSOs urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and active in their civic duties while urging the government to keep all channels for direct participation open, even if it causes discomfort to those in authority.