The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson Claris Ogangah has condemned the disruption of a peaceful civil society meeting held at All Saints Cathedral, describing the incident as an attack on constitutional freedoms and democratic governance.
The meeting, which had been convened to discuss matters of public interest, including the national budget, was reportedly disrupted by a group of individuals, prompting concern from the human rights watchdog.
“An attack on a place of worship and a peaceful civic gathering is an attack on the constitutional rights and freedoms that all Kenyans enjoy. Such actions have no place in a democratic society,” Ogangah said.
She noted that the Constitution guarantees the rights to freedom of conscience, expression, association, and peaceful assembly, adding that these rights must be respected and protected by both state and non-state actors.
In a statement to newsrooms, Ogangah welcomed the prompt intervention by the National Police Service and called for swift investigations into the incident.
“We expect those responsible for planning, financing, organizing, or carrying out this attack to be identified and held accountable. Accountability is essential to safeguarding the rule of law and preventing impunity,” she said.
The KNCHR Chairperson expressed concern over reports that young people may have been mobilised to disrupt the gathering.
“It is deeply concerning if our youth are being exploited to intimidate or perpetrate violence. Young people should be empowered to participate positively in civic engagement and democratic processes, not be used to undermine them,” Ogangah stated.
She urged Kenyans to continue exercising their constitutional rights peacefully and without fear of intimidation or harassment.
“Our civic spaces, including places of worship, must remain safe environments where citizens can freely engage on matters of public interest. No Kenyan should live in fear for exercising their constitutional freedoms,” she said.
Ogangah reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting human rights and civic space across the country and pledged to monitor the ongoing investigations.
“The KNCHR remains steadfast in protecting the rights and freedoms of all persons in Kenya. We call for a prompt, impartial, and transparent investigation and urge members of the public to continue reporting any human rights violations to the Commission,” she said.
By Zipporah Odionyi and Nancy Omondi
