Murkomen reaffirms Kenya’s commitment to human rights in talks with EU Envoy

Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights of its citizens as enshrined in the Constitution and other laws.

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen made the remarks during a meeting with the European Union Special Representative for Human Rights, Kajsa Ollongren.

He assured the EU delegation that the government remains steadfast in protecting the rights and freedoms of every Kenyan.

The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between Kenya and the European Union in advancing human rights, promoting democratic governance, and enhancing strategic cooperation in key sectors, including security.

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen during a meeting with EU delegation./HANDOUT

Murkomen highlighted ongoing government programmes aimed at promoting citizen inclusion, nurturing a robust democratic culture, safeguarding the independence of the judiciary, strengthening oversight institutions, and supporting a vibrant civil society.

The two leaders also deliberated on the ongoing modernisation of the National Police Service (NPS), with the CS noting reforms intended to enhance professionalism, accountability, and service delivery within the security sector.

He lauded the European Union for its continued support, particularly in capacity-building initiatives and the digitisation of the criminal justice system. The meeting came just a day after Kenya signed a training Memorandum of Understanding with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in Geneva, Switzerland.

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen during a meeting with EU delegation./HANDOUT

On her part, Ollongren congratulated Kenya on its recent election to the United Nations Human Rights Council, saying the position would bolster the country’s role in promoting regional security, stability, and human rights.

Ollongren was accompanied by the EU Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, among other officials.

Those present at the meeting included Principal Administrative Secretaries Beverly Opwora (National Administration) and Jacob Narengo (Internal Security), Secretary for National Administration Thomas Saka, Independent Policing Oversight Authority Commissioner Dr Annette Mbogoh, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Police Service.

by CYRUS OMBATI