During his state visit to Kenya, King Willem-Alexander spoke about the importance of human rights, expressing that both Kenyans and Dutch citizens desire their rights respected. His visit follows a petition from over 20,000 Kenyans asking for its cancellation amid rising human rights abuses. King Willem-Alexander highlighted the robust relationship between the two countries, allowing for discussions on governance and accountability.
During a recent state visit to Kenya, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands addressed the importance of human rights in the context of rising allegations of abuses within the country. His statement emphasized the shared desire of Kenyans and Dutch citizens to have their rights respected and their voices heard. “The people of Kenya, like those of The Netherlands, want their rights as free citizens to be respected and their voices to be heard,” he remarked during his visit in Nairobi, underscoring the significance of this discussion.
King Willem-Alexander also expressed satisfaction that the robust relationship between the Netherlands and Kenya allowed for conversations about pressing issues such as human rights, good governance, and accountability. He noted, “I am pleased that our countries’ strong and mature relationship allows us to devote attention during this visit to issues such as human rights, good governance, and accountability.”
The visit follows a petition signed by over 20,000 Kenyans on Change.org, urging King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima to reconsider their plans amid the current climate of alleged human rights violations. In the previous month, the Dutch government received more than 300 emails requesting the state visit’s cancellation; however, it continued as planned.
The royal couple’s visit, scheduled to last three days, commenced with their arrival on Monday night. On Tuesday, King Willem-Alexander received a 21-gun salute and inspected an honour guard during an official welcome at the office of Kenyan President William Ruto.
Recent events in Kenya have raised concerns about government actions, including the detention of critics and a crackdown on free speech, especially following anti-government protests in June 2024. Demonstrators had voiced their opposition to new tax legislation, resulting in a series of arrests. Furthermore, it has been reported that individuals have been abducted due to social media posts viewed as offensive to the President. After protests against kidnappings escalated in December, numerous peaceful protesters were also detained.
In recognition of its human rights efforts, Kenya was recently elected as one of several African nations to the United Nations Human Rights Council in October 2024, highlighting a potential commitment to addressing these critical issues.
In conclusion, King Willem-Alexander’s state visit to Kenya highlighted the urgent need for discussions surrounding human rights, particularly in light of recent allegations of abuses in the country. The King’s remarks underscored the mutual expectations for respect and accountability in governance. Despite calls for the visit’s cancellation, the Dutch insignia in Kenya signifies a focus on advocating for the rights of its citizens amidst ongoing challenges. The acknowledgment of Kenya’s role in the UN Human Rights Council suggests a commitment to improving its human rights landscape.
Original Source: www.graphic.com.gh
