Civil Society Organisations deny allegations of funding Kenya protests

In a joint statement, the Civil Society groups explained that the youths of the country were fuelled by the continued neglect of their needs by the government. They noted that the Gen Z protests push for an accountable government in all three arms. 

The organisations expressed concerns on a letter by Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing'Oei to Darren Walker, President of the Ford Foundation, seeking a list of the grantees who have benefitted between April 2023 and May 2024. 

The letter suggested that some of the grantees such as Civil Society organisations and Human Rights Groups, could be funding the ongoing protests. 

This was, however, disputed by the CSOs who reaffirmed that such actions would contradict their work which involves upholding the law, protect human rights and promote good governance. 

“We categorically repudiate these unfounded accusations and reiterate our call for the government to remain true to the constitution and protect independent civil society organisations and media in Kenya. CSOs have been instrumental in Kenya's development and play a pivotal role in protecting human rights, upholding the rule of law, promoting good governance and fostering social and economic progress,” the statement read in part. 

“We unequivocally condemn any unlawful acts during protests. The allegations that CSOs are complicit in promoting illegal activities are false and undermine the invaluable work they do to strengthen our society and are aimed at tarnishing the perception of CSOs to the citizenry we serve.”

The CSOs listed some of the rapid response interventions they have undertaken to meet the needs of Kenyans affected in the protests such as legal assistance for those arrested or abducted, medical assistance for those injured and psychosocial support for individuals and families affected. 

They have also amplified the need to protect human rights and governance presented by Kenyans. The CSOs explained that these actions should not be mistaken as support for acts of lawlessness and violence. 

The suggestion that young people, particularly the GenZ, are being funded to speak up and use their voices devalues their genuine contributions to Kenya's development. Young Kenyans have shown remarkable dedication and initiative in advocating for positive change. Their voices are not just essential but inspiring in shaping the future of our nation, and they deserve to be heard and respected.

The Civil Society groups called for the government to protect and uphold Kenyans’ rights as provided for in the Constitution. They also reiterated that the CSOs must be allowed to operate without undue interference or accusations. 

Other demands listed include accountability in the budget making process, public debt audit and prosecution of those accused of corruption.  

“We continue that Kenyans stay woke and continue their role as active Citizens as the people with direct power on the affairs of the Kenyan state and, in turn, call on the government to keep all channels for direct participation of the people open even when they are cause discomfort to those in authority.”