Concerns Raised Over Kenyan Police Conduct During Finance Bill Protests by Haitian Human Rights Group
The Haitian human rights organization known as the Movement Unforgettable Dessalines Jean Jacques (MUDJJ) has raised significant concerns regarding the conduct of Kenyan police officers.
In a formal letter addressed to the United Nations Human Rights Council, and with copies sent to the leader of the Thirdway Alliance Party, Aukot, as well as Amnesty International and the African Union, MUDJJ highlighted troubling actions by the police during protests against the Finance Bill 2024 in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
The letter detailed various incidents where police officers harassed journalists, arrested protesters, and employed excessive force to maintain order during the demonstrations.
“The Movement Unforgettable Dessalines Jean Jacques (MUDJJ) wishes to convey our deep apprehension about recent actions taken by Kenyan police against their citizens,” the letter stated.
The group expressed particular dismay at the use of teargas on peaceful protesters, the harassment of journalists performing their duties, and the arrest of activists, including Hanifa Farsafi, who were protesting the financial bill introduced by President Ruto.
These concerns are further amplified by the Kenyan government’s plans, under President William Ruto, to send police officers to Haiti, a country plagued by gang violence.
MUDJJ fears that the conduct displayed by Kenyan police officers during the Nairobi protests could foreshadow the kind of oppressive tactics that might be used in Haiti once the officers are deployed.
“Our worries extend beyond Kenyan borders, deeply concerning us about the potential ramifications for the people of Haiti,” MUDJJ emphasized.
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The organization pointed out that the United States government, with backing from the United Nations Security Council, has approved the deployment of a Multinational Security Support (MSS) force to Haiti.
Given the recent instances of police brutality in Kenya, MUDJJ fears that similar repressive measures could be applied against the Haitian populace.
The letter, signed by MUDJJ President Eliphete Joseph, called upon the United Nations Human Rights Council, Amnesty International, and the African Union to closely examine and question the United States government and the UN Security Council regarding the MSS mission.
MUDJJ insisted that the Haitian people, like all global citizens, deserve to live in freedom and dignity. They urged for immediate action to ensure the protection and respect of the rights of the Haitian people.
Despite these serious concerns and ongoing legal challenges from various interest groups within the country, the plan to deploy Kenyan police officers to Haiti is still progressing.
MUDJJ’s appeal underscores the urgent need for international oversight to prevent potential abuses and ensure that the mission does not lead to further human rights violations in Haiti.
Concerns Raised Over Kenyan Police Conduct During Finance Bill Protests by Haitian Human Rights Group