Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kenya have strongly denied allegations of funding anti-government protests that have taken place over the past month. In a joint statement, the CSOs clarified that the youth-led demonstrations stem from frustration over the government’s neglect of their needs. The protests have been characterized by demands for accountability from all three branches of government.
Allegations and Government Response
The allegations emerged following a letter from Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei to Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation. The letter requested a list of grantees who had benefited from funding between April 2023 and May 2024. CSOs argue that such a request contradicts their mission of upholding the law, protecting human rights, and promoting good governance.
CSOs’ Stance
“We categorically repudiate these unfounded accusations and reiterate our call for the government to remain true to the constitution and protect independent civil society organisations and media in Kenya. CSOs have been instrumental in Kenya’s development and play a pivotal role in protecting human rights, upholding the rule of law, promoting good governance and fostering social and economic progress,” the statement read.
The CSOs further condemned any unlawful acts during the protests and rejected claims that they were complicit in illegal activities. They emphasized that such allegations undermine their efforts to strengthen society and tarnish their image among the citizens they serve.
Actions and Interventions by CSOs
The statement highlighted several rapid response interventions by CSOs to assist Kenyans affected by the protests. These interventions include:
- Legal assistance for those arrested or abducted.
- Medical assistance for the injured.
- Psychosocial support for affected individuals and families.
The CSOs have also amplified the need to protect human rights and good governance as expressed by Kenyans. They clarified that these actions should not be mistaken for support of lawlessness and violence.
Role of Gen Z in Protests
The organisations defended the genuine contributions of young people, particularly Gen Z, in advocating for positive change in Kenya. The CSOs argued that suggesting these youths were funded to speak up devalues their dedication and initiative.
“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,” the statement emphasized.
Demands and Call to Action
The CSOs called on the government to protect and uphold the rights of Kenyans as provided in the Constitution. They also demanded:
- Accountability in the budget-making process.
- A public debt audit.
- Prosecution of those accused of corruption.
The statement concluded with a call for Kenyans to remain vigilant and active citizens. The CSOs urged the government to keep channels of direct participation open, even if it causes discomfort to those in power.
“We continue that Kenyans stay woke and continue their role as active Citizens as the people with direct power on the affairs of the Kenyan state and, in turn, call on the government to keep all channels for direct participation of the people open even when they cause discomfort to those in authority.”
In the face of these allegations, the CSOs remain committed to their mission of fostering social and economic progress, upholding the rule of law, and protecting human rights in Kenya.
