Civil society groups demand implementation of TJRC report
National
By
Patrick Vidija
| Mar 27, 2024
A group of civil society organisations has challenged the government to prioritise the implementation of the findings in the Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC).
led by the Kenya Transitional Justice Network (KTJN), in collaboration with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Utu Wetu, Grace Agenda, National Victims and Survivors Network (NVSN) and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the groups said the report emphasises the importance of reparations for victims of human rights abuses, including financial compensation, restitution, rehabilitation, and support for rebuilding their lives.
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In a joint press conference, the organisations said they remain committed to advocating for truth, justice, and reparations and will continue working tirelessly to ensure the rights and dignity of victims are upheld.
Other organisations were the Physicians for Human Rights (PHR), Center for Memory and Development (CEMED), and the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ).
They issued the statement in commemoration of the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims.
Yvonne Oyieke, the executive director of UTU WETU, while acknowledging the challenges faced in advocating for justice and accountability emphasized the need for continued engagement and pressure on the government, particularly in light of Kenya's unique nature of electoral processes.
She called on civil society organizations and survivors to persevere until justice is served.
Her remarks were shared by Jacqueline Mutere, the team lead at Grace Agenda who stressed the importance of unity among survivors of post-election sexual violence.
She encouraged survivors to continue demanding justice within their respective groups and networks, emphasizing the strength that lies in their collective actions.
Mutere expressed concern for the ongoing trauma experienced by survivors and highlighted the critical need for psychosocial support services.
She underscored the significance of initiatives and programs that promote reconciliation, healing, and social cohesion within divided communities.
“I strongly encourage community dialogues, memorialization efforts, educational reforms, and cultural initiatives to foster understanding and unity,” she said.
Several survivors of the 2007/8 post-election violence bravely shared their stories, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges they continue to face.
The survivors said that they are waiting for the government to expedite compensation, they continue to struggle to rebuild their lives.
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