Kenya’s Alarming Abductions of Foreign Nationals and Asylum Seekers

Concerns are rising over the increasing abductions of foreign nationals and asylum seekers in Kenya. Activists highlight the targeted abduction of South Sudanese nationals, particularly linked to political dissent, and advocate for international legal adherence. Human Rights Watch is investigating these issues and urging accountability from Kenyan authorities while emphasizing the risks to human rights defenders.

In Kenya, there is growing concern over the alarming increase in abductions of foreign nationals and asylum seekers. Otsieno Namwawa, Associate Director at Human Rights Watch (HRW) Kenya, emphasized that both refugees and individuals escaping political persecution have been targeted, prompting urgent reactions from human rights organizations and global observers.

One particularly troubling trend has been the abduction of South Sudanese nationals, often linked to their political activism. Reports indicate that these individuals are taken from Kenya and forcibly returned to South Sudan, where they face severe consequences. An activist noted, “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, other foreign nationals, including Mongolians and Turkish citizens, have also been victims of abductions. Turkish nationals faced similar treatment in 2021 and 2022, leading to international condemnation. A rights advocate stated, “This is a violation of the most basic principles of asylum and human rights,” underscoring the gravity of these incidents.

Despite these distressing events, the global community has not consistently responded with urgency, especially compared to the outcry following the high-profile abduction of Kisaba. However, the ongoing abductions illustrate a more complex issue as many victims were legally recognized refugees or asylum seekers. International law prohibits the return of individuals to countries where they face risks of torture or persecution, a violation reportedly occurring in Kenya.

Namwawa further elaborated on these issues, asserting that, “When foreign governments want to extradite individuals from Kenya, the proper legal process must be followed.” He criticized the absence of due process, raising alarms about the state of the rule of law in the country.

HRW has undertaken investigations into these abductions, revealing identities involved in these operations. “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,” Namwawa explained.

The organization has also engaged with Kenyan authorities, demanding accountability for these illegal actions. Namwawa emphasized that, “what is happening is illegal and there must be accountability.” Despite the risks, he and his team remain committed to their mission, acknowledging that “none of us are truly safe while these abductions continue.”

International bodies, including the United Nations and the African Union, are urged to ensure that Kenya fulfills its legal obligations to protect the rights of asylum seekers. Namwawa warned, “We are seeing a global regression in human rights, and Kenya must not be allowed to contribute to this dangerous trend.”

The abduction of foreign nationals and asylum seekers in Kenya represents a critical human rights violation that necessitates immediate attention. With incidents involving South Sudanese and Turkish nationals leading to international outcry, it is imperative that Kenya adheres to international legal standards regarding asylum seekers. The international community must demand accountability to prevent further erosion of human rights in the region.

Original Source: www.channelafrica.co.za