By ROSELYNE OBALA
Kenya: The Government has put up a strong case at the United Nations Committee Against Torture (CAT) outlining the ongoing institutional and legislative reforms to prevention of torture and ill-treatment.
Attonery General Githu Muigai who is leading the Government’s delegation while responding to questions filed by the experts took the opportunity to set the record straight by demystifying a perception created that Kenya has failed to implement the torture treaty.
He strongly defended the Government’s position, arguing that it has achieved a lot after the enactment of the new constitution.
Prof Githu also disclosed that the much-awaited report by the Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission is scheduled to be handed over to President Uhuru Kenyatta within a fortnight.
“The report will detail the findings of the Tana River Delta clashes and other injustices for action,” he said, explaining that the delay in submitting the report has been necessitated by the transition process in Government.
He acknowleged what happened in Tana was very tragic and that top government officials visited the region and advised the TJRC to conduct an inquiry.
Githu defended the Government’s position’s, denying claims of failing to enforce legal measures to prohibit human rights violation.
CAT experts led by vice chairperson Essadia Belmir had pressurised the Government to come clean on allegations of torture and other inhuman treatment perpetrated by State officers.
He noted that the prevention of torture bill drafted by Kenya is one of the best but wondered why it has been passed.
“We have specific legislations on torture and we wish to correct this perception that the Government has not up mechanism to deal with torture and other ill-human treatments,” he said.
Prof Githu continued, “Kenya has strived to have a free torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment against its citizenry. Our constitution prohibits torture or any other ill-act.”
The AG confirmed that the cases of torture are routinely tried in the Kenyan courts and this shows the Government’s commitment in ensuring its Citizens rights are not violated.
