(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – The following is the full text of a letter written by Article 19 to Daniel arap Moi, President of the Republic of Kenya ARTICLE 19 is very concerned by reports that the Non-Governmental Organisations Co-ordination Board is considering ‘de-registering’ three non-governmental organisations: The Kenya Human Rights Commission, Econews and Kituo cha Sheria. […]
(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – The following is the full text of a letter written by
Article 19 to Daniel arap Moi, President of the Republic of Kenya
ARTICLE 19 is very concerned by reports that the Non-Governmental
Organisations Co-ordination Board is considering ‘de-registering’ three
non-governmental organisations: The Kenya Human Rights Commission, Econews
and Kituo cha Sheria. The indications are that this action may be taken as
a result of support from the organisations for trade union activities.
The objections ARTICLE 19 has to the targeting of these organisations are
based on Kenya’s obligations to freedom of expression and freedom of
association under international and regional law, as well as under Section
80 of the Kenyan Constitution.
These guarantees exist to protect people’s rights to express their opinions
peacefully, to freely associate (including holding meetings and organising
peaceful demonstrations) and to form or join societies, trade unions,
political groups and other associations.
The part which non-governmental organisations, such as those under threat,
play in informing people of their rights and helping to attain them is
vital. Groups like these encourage debate and democratic participation, and
as such are a vital part of a healthy democracy.
We urge you to guarantee that the Kenyan people’s fundamental human rights
are protected by allowing the organisations which represent them to carry
out their mandate free from official interference.
Frances D’Souza
Executive Director
Article 19
Appeals To
Send similar appeals to:
HE Daniel arap Moi
President of the Republic of Kenya
Harambee House
Nairobi
Kenya
