The International Day for the Right to Truth is celebrated annually on the 24th of March. It is a commemoration of the victims of human rights violations, acknowledging a fundamental human right to truth and supporting those human rights activists and defenders who commit their lives to fighting for truth and justice. This year the Commission has not been left behind in acknowledging the fact that truth precedes justice and that the best we can do, as a people, is not to remain silent, but to make louder the voice of truth seeking.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights therefore joins victims and survivors of gross human rights violations to mark this day in Kenya. The Commission takes cognizance that the spirit and letter of Article 28 of the Kenyan Constitution, on the right to human dignity, is relevant and an integral call of duty for every duty bearer. Therefore, Truth is universal and fundamental to all and so are the other human rights.
During the release of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights 2018 statement on the state of human rights and fundamental freedoms, the Commission, brought to the fore the commitment made by the Government in 2015 towards reparations for victims and survivors of historical injustices in Kenya by offering a public apology to the victims and subsequently setting up a Ksh. 10 billion Restorative Justice Fund. Since then, efforts towards administration and disbursement of the Restorative Justice Funds to victims and survivors has not been realized.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Kagwiria Mbogori was one of the key note speakers at the celebrations which took place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre grounds. Other stakeholders who participated in the celebrations were; Kenya Truth and Justice Network in partnership with national Victims and survivors Network, the AGs office and the Council of Governors. The latter was represented by its Chairman Hon. Gov. Josphat Nanok. Read the full Chairperson remarks
The Author is the Head of Public Affairs and Communications at KNCHR