Otsieno Namwawa from HRW highlights a troubling rise in the abduction of foreign nationals and asylum seekers in Kenya, particularly affecting South Sudanese refugees. The abduction cases indicate severe violations of international law and human rights principles, as many victims are forcibly returned to perilous situations. HRW is investigating these incidents and advocating for accountability, calling on international bodies to ensure the protection of refugees.
Otsieno Namwawa, Associate Director at Human Rights Watch (HRW) Kenya, has highlighted the recent surge in abductions of foreign nationals and asylum seekers in the country. These violations disproportionately affect refugees and individuals fleeing political persecution, raising significant concerns among human rights organizations and international observers.
A particularly alarming trend involves the abduction of South Sudanese nationals engaged in political activism. Reports indicate that these individuals are forcibly taken from Kenya and returned to South Sudan, where they often meet fatal consequences. Activists express grave concerns, stating, “The method used in these abductions is crude and worrying. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case, and it’s something we’ve seen happen far too often.”
Additionally, nationals from other countries, such as Mongolia and Turkey, have reportedly also been victims of such abductions. These individuals are frequently sent back to countries where they face significant risks. Activists point out that Turkish nationals were forcibly taken from Kenya in 2021 and 2022, prompting strong condemnation. A rights advocate remarked, “This is a violation of the most basic principles of asylum and human rights,” underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The international community has not consistently responded with urgency to these issues, particularly compared to the high-profile abduction of Kisaba. The recent abductions highlight a troubling complexity, as many victims are legally recognized refugees or asylum seekers. Under international law, returning individuals to countries where they face torture or death is prohibited, yet such incidents continue in Kenya.
Namwawa further emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating, “When foreign governments want to extradite individuals from Kenya, the proper legal process must be followed. This includes an extradition procedure initiated through the courts. Unfortunately, this has not been happening.” The absence of due process raises widespread concerns about the rule of law in the nation.
HRW has been investigating these abductions, with Namwawa noting that their efforts have revealed details about the individuals responsible. “We’ve conducted thorough investigations and disclosed details about the abductions. Since making this information public, some of the abductions have stopped, but we are uncertain whether this is permanent,” he commented.
The organization has engaged with Kenyan authorities to demand accountability, with Namwawa stressing, “We’ve made it clear that what is happening is illegal and there must be accountability.” Despite the inherent risks faced by human rights defenders in this context, he affirmed the commitment to continue their advocacy, stating, “None of us are truly safe while these abductions continue.”
International human rights bodies, including the United Nations and the African Union, are urged to ensure that Kenya upholds its legal obligations, protecting the rights of asylum seekers. Namwawa cautioned, “We are seeing a global regression in human rights, and Kenya must not be allowed to contribute to this dangerous trend.”
The abductions of foreign nationals and asylum seekers in Kenya have raised serious human rights concerns, particularly regarding the treatment of refugees from South Sudan and other countries. The lack of due process and the violation of international law highlight the urgent need for accountability and reform. Human Rights Watch continues to investigate these incidents and emphasize the importance of protecting the rights of vulnerable individuals, urging the international community to respond decisively to this crisis.
Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za
