Amnesty International Kenya urges prioritization of human rights in the upcoming state visit by the Dutch Royals from March 18-20, 2025. The organization highlights recent brutal crackdowns on protests in Kenya and calls for accountability. The visit underscores strong bilateral relations and aims to enhance cooperation between the two countries.
Amnesty International Kenya has urged the government to prioritize human rights discussions in the diplomatic relations between Kenya and the Netherlands. This call comes ahead of the state visit by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima from March 18 to 20, 2025, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
Irungu Houghton, director of Amnesty International Kenya, emphasized the need to address human rights violations during this visit. He stated that discussions should center on accountability for victims following a recent violent crackdown on protests, leading to numerous casualties among demonstrators.
Houghton highlighted that over the past nine months, excessive force by police has resulted in over 60 deaths among protestors, alongside the abduction of more than 80 activists, predominantly young Kenyans. Continued impunity regarding these actions illustrates the urgent need for human rights accountability.
Amnesty International advocates for both Kenyan and Dutch ministers to clearly outline steps for improving human rights in Kenya during the visit. Houghton reiterated that economic and military interests must not overshadow human rights concerns in the discussions.
This visit, initiated by President William Ruto, marks the first royal state visit to Kenya and symbolizes the strong relationship between the two nations. The Netherlands aims to develop new partnerships while enhancing existing cooperation in various sectors.
The forthcoming state visit by the Dutch Royal Couple presents a key opportunity for discussions on human rights in Kenya. Amnesty International emphasizes the importance of elevating human rights issues in these diplomatic discussions, urging accountability for past violations and ensuring future commitments to improvement. This visit underscores the commitment between Kenya and the Netherlands to foster both economic and human rights progress.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
