Written By Lisa Murimi
Several human rights defenders and civil society organizations in Kenya are under investigation by the government for their involvement in monitoring and addressing police actions during recent protests.Â
Wanjiru Gikonyo, a governance expert, revealed that activists were summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) for allegedly participating in “subversive activities.”
The targeted activists, including those from organizations like Haki Africa, were reportedly involved in tracking police management of the protests, providing legal assistance to arrested demonstrators, and pursuing cases of extrajudicial killings.
Gikonyo asserted that their work was not subversive but essential for ensuring accountability and justice, particularly as many arrested protesters were released by courts due to a lack of charges.
The government’s actions have raised concerns about a potential crackdown on civil society organizations dedicated to upholding human rights and freedoms.
Last week, the High Court intervened, issuing a conservatory order that temporarily halts government investigations into civil society groups accused of funding protests.
The court’s decision protects organizations like the Kenya Human Rights Commission and Katiba Institute from government interference until mid-September, pending further legal review.
