They've empowered the public through research, policy development, and awareness campaigns, often standing up for the marginalised and vulnerable. However, their journey has been fraught with peril, as some paid the ultimate price in their commitment to this noble cause.
Over the years, members of civil society have often found themselves at odds with various administrations, from the Moi era to Mwai Kibaki's tenure and then in Uhuru Kenyatta's rule. They've faced threats, violence, and in some tragic cases, lost their lives due to their unwavering pursuit of justice.
The shadow of corruption cartels looms over their work, adding to the complexities of their engagement with the Kenyan government. Some individuals within the civil society sphere have been criticised for perpetuating a cycle of poverty rather than delivering lasting solutions to societal challenges.
It's been suggested that they might perennially inadvertently create dependence on their services to sustain their own existence, as the book "Lords of Poverty" written by British author and journalist Graham Hancock shows. However, regardless of these concerns, the overall impact of civil society in Kenya has been significant.
After taking office, President Ruto sent a clear message that his administration is resolute in preventing extrajudicial killings. He expressed his commitment to this cause undertaking to support investigations into approximately 200 ongoing cases of extrajudicial killings, following discussions with the country's police leadership.
Therefore, a recent consultative meeting convened by Felix Koskei, the President's Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, with members of civil society on October 19 this year holds profound significance. It underscores a government's willingness to embrace transparency and be answerable to its citizens.
A prior meeting, which included police commandants and civil activists such as Boniface Mwangi of Pawa254 and Kwame Owino of Institute of Economic Affairs, allowed these activists to voice their concerns openly. Mwangi highlighted the issue of low police pay as a root cause of corruption within the force, suggesting the need for a police rights organisation, while Kwame called for reallocating funds to the police service for enhanced national security.
Koskei acknowledged the historical adversarial relationship between civil society and the government, a stance he deemed counterproductive. He called for a partnership, recognising that the government cannot combat corruption in isolation. He assured activists that the government would not shield corrupt civil servants and pledged respect for the civil society's role in Kenya. Organisations such as the World Bank recommend the enabling civil society to play an effective role in fighting corruption.
The Head of Civil Service also expressed concern over the continued normalisation of corruption despite the existence of legal and institutional frameworks. He stressed the necessity of unity and collaboration between the government and anti-corruption organisations. Historically, government-civil society engagement was marred by intimidation, harassment, and even violence, with both sides holding entrenched positions.
The departure from this historical context should not be underestimated or dismissed as mere political expediency. Koskei's role as the President's messenger and a change agent is evident in his efforts to engage with diverse groups within the government and the broader society. He is actively advocating for unity in the fight against corruption.
This shift signifies a genuine commitment to reform and transparency, and it marks a departure from the traditional adversarial relationship between the government and civil society. It highlights the administration's determination to tackle corruption collectively and underscores the significance of collaboration in this critical endeavor.
It is essential that this collaboration does not lead to silence when economic crimes occur or when human rights violations take place. The collaboration appears sincere and can be beneficial, especially considering the government's determination to eradicate corruption, which could thwart its Bottom-Up Economic Agenda.
The government must recognize that individuals like Boniface Mwangi, who have shown unwavering commitment to defending the rights of Kenyan citizens, cannot be silenced. The government's accommodation of varying opinions in governance is commendable and suggests a departure from past authoritarian regimes.
Human rights advocates have paid the highest possible cost while carrying out their vital work. This tragic legacy dates back to George Githii in 1994 and includes the heart-wrenching loss of Oscar Kamau Kingara and John Paul Oulu, who were fatally ambushed while in their car in 2009.
More recently, in 2016, Willie Kimani, Josephat Mwenda, and Joseph Muiruri were not only abducted but also subjected to horrific torture before their lives were brutally cut short. Their mission was to expose cases of police brutality and misconduct.
It is of utmost importance that the government extends its unwavering support to these courageous activists who place themselves in harm's way in their noble pursuit. Ensuring their safety and security is a moral imperative that must be upheld to safeguard the fundamental principles of human rights and justice.
Moreover, for civil society to effectively fulfil its role, sharing information with the government is crucial. It allows civil society to monitor government actions, policies, budgets, and expenditure, fostering transparency and accountability among civil servants. Collaboration enhances resource allocation, policy development, and public engagement for civil society organizations.
By working effectively with civil society, Ruto's government can diversify perspectives and enhance problem-solving. Civil society's strong grassroots presence complements government efforts in tackling relevant issues.
In summary, President Ruto's eagerness to engage with civil society represents a notable departure from previous practices, illustrating a firm dedication to transparency, inclusiveness, and a democratic ethos. This partnership proves to be advantageous for all parties involved, propelling progress forward when it is grounded in sincerity and a strategic vision aimed at the betterment of Kenyan society.
This year, Koskei has actively convened with parliamentary audit committees, police leadership throughout the nation, government accounting officers, chief finance officers, regulatory agencies, and various other influential entities. His efforts have centred on fostering unity in tackling pressing issues such as corruption with the overarching goal of augmenting the efficiency and effectiveness of the government.
Political commentator
