by Inuka Kenya | Aug 27, 2025 | Press Statements, Stories
Fifteen years after its promulgation, the Constitution’s transformative promise remains largely unfulfilled. Though it envisioned a democratic, accountable, and people-centered state, critical provisions on governance and social justice have been ignored, undermined, or manipulated.
Peaceful protesters, particularly young Kenyans in the recent Gen Z-led demonstrations, have been met with bullets, abductions, and killings. This undermined the right to assemble and petition under Article 37.
The Executive has repeatedly disobeyed court orders, eroded the authority of the Judiciary, and weakened constitutional checks and balances. Independent commissions and oversight institutions, established under Chapter 15 to safeguard accountability, have been starved of resources, undermined, or brought under Executive thumb.
Devolution, one of the Constitution’s most significant gains, has been systematically weakened through delayed and inadequate funding of counties, crippling essential services such as healthcare and education.
Populist directives, such as the victims’ compensation framework, which bypasses lawful processes, and the multi-agency anti-corruption taskforce, which usurps the role of constitutional commissions, continue to prove the regime’s disregard for the rule of law. Meanwhile, corruption and the wastage of public resources remain rampant, robbing Kenyans of opportunities and deepening inequality.
At the same time, the regime has failed to realize the socio-economic rights guaranteed under Article 43. Millions of Kenyans face worsening unemployment, collapsing education standards, and a failing health system.
Against this backdrop, President William Ruto’s declaration of Katiba Day appears less about honoring the Constitution and more about sanitizing a record of consistent violations. For the last 14 years, citizens, civil society, and progressive actors have faithfully marked the anniversary of the Constitution’s promulgation, even under hostility from successive regimes. Katiba Day has always provided a moment for Kenyans to reflect, take stock, and reaffirm their commitment to defending the Constitution. They did not need a presidential proclamation to remember this day, as it has always belonged to the people.
This year’s theme, “Inuka Uilinde” or “arise and defend the Constitution”, is a timely reminder that the Constitution must be rescued from political expediency and defended by the people it was written for. The Gen Z movement has already shown the power of citizen action in exposing impunity. It must now be sustained and broadened. As civil society organizations, we demand the following actions in defense of the Constitution:
- There must be a fidelity to the letter and spirit of the Constitution. Populist, unconstitutional directives must be abandoned in favor of lawful processes anchored in the Constitution.
- Interference with Parliament and the Judiciary must end. Legislators should be free to exercise their oversight and lawmaking roles without Executive influence, while independent commissions and oversight bodies must be adequately resourced to fulfill their mandates free from political manipulation.
- There must be justice for victims of state violence, past and present. Corruption and wastage must be confronted decisively, and those responsible for human rights violations and the looting of public resources must be held accountable.
Signed:
Act Change Transform (Act!)
Article 19 East Africa
Civic Freedoms Forum (CFF)
CRECO
Defenders Coalition
Haki Yetu
Initiative for Inclusive Empowerment
International Justice Mission (IJM)
Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU)
InformAction
Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi!
Katiba Institute
Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC)
Kenya Land Alliance (KLA)
Kituo cha Sheria
Mazingira Institute
Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI)
Siasa Place
The Institute for Social Accountability (TISA)
Transparency International Kenya (TI Kenya)
Wangu Kanja
by Inuka Kenya | Aug 7, 2025 | Opportunities
Inuka Kenya conducted a study on Shrinking Civic Space between December 2023 and February 2024 in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The study was informed by the need to create a knowledge base for advocacy on civic space. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are at the forefront of these challenges, experiencing heightened risks such as forced disappearances, threats, violence, and in some cases, targeted killings—often believed to be carried out by government or ruling party operatives, or national security agencies.
The study recommended that civil society must strengthen knowledge-building and evidence-based advocacy, engage in continuous and targeted capacity assessment, and building in view of changing civic space dynamics. Also, civil society must build coalitions and networks nationally, regionally and internationally, diversify its resource bases and design and implement strategic national and regional responses to civic space infringements. It is critical also to invest in technology, strengthen security training and programming and increase community outreach and constituency building. CSOs must also develop a crisis-response plan, which includes cultivating support from among government officials as an early warning plan. It is on the basis of this that Inuka Kenya seeks to identify, support, and amplify champions—two (2) individuals per country who lead and inspire resilient civil society initiatives.
Inuka seeks to:
Identify individuals demonstrating strong leadership and commitment to civil society resilience in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
Commitment to civil society resilience in this context refers to an individual’s sustained efforts to strengthen and protect civic spaces, grassroots movements, and democratic participation, even in the face of challenges such as government restrictions, funding shortages, or social opposition. It includes:
- Defending Civic Space & Rights – Advocating for freedoms and human rights, ensuring that civil society organizations (CSOs) operate without undue restrictions.
- Sustained Engagement in Advocacy & Governance – Actively participating in policy reforms, social justice movements, and human rights campaigns to enhance accountability and transparency.
- Capacity Building & Grassroots Mobilization – Strengthening local communities by providing knowledge, tools, and platforms for civic engagement and empowerment.
- Innovation & Adaptability – Developing new approaches to activism, governance, and community engagement, leveraging technology and creative strategies to overcome challenges.
- Collaboration & Solidarity – Building networks across different sectors (civil society, academia, private sector, and government) to amplify impact and sustain long-term change.
Champion Characteristics:
- Deep commitment to community engagement and societal change.
- Ability to mobilize resources and build collaborative networks.
- Proven track record of resilience in the face of challenges.
- Strong communication skills and capacity to influence public opinion.
- Alignment with the values and strategic goals of the civil society organization.
Competency Measures for Champion Characteristics
Commitment to Community Engagement & Societal Change
- Evidence of past participation in community projects, advocacy, or policy initiatives. • Number of initiatives led or contributed to that resulted in tangible social impact. • Testimonials or endorsements from community members and peers.
Resource Mobilization & Network Building
- Ability to secure funding, partnerships, or in-kind support for initiatives.
- Demonstrated history of collaboration with multiple stakeholders (e.g., NGOs, government, grassroots organizations).
- Size and diversity of the network engaged in past projects.
Resilience & Adaptability
- Ability to navigate setbacks and continue working toward objectives.
- Case studies or examples showcasing problem-solving in challenging situations. • Self-assessment or peer feedback on handling pressure and adversity.
Communication & Public Influence
- Public speaking engagements, media appearances, or published articles.
- Social media reach and engagement on advocacy-related content.
- Ability to articulate complex issues in a way that resonates with diverse audiences. Alignment with Civil Society Values & Strategic Goals
- Demonstrated commitment to human rights, social justice, and democratic values. • Consistency of past work with the organization’s mission and vision.
- Willingness to work within the ethical and operational frameworks of the civil society sector.
Identification Criteria
- Core Competencies:
- Commitment: Demonstrated passion and long-term involvement in civil society issues.
- Influence: Ability to inspire others, backed by a strong network of supporters.
- Innovation: Track record of creative solutions and adaptability to challenges.
- Communication: Proficiency in articulating ideas, both verbally and through digital channels.
- Integrity: High ethical standards and alignment with organizational values.
Competency Measures for Core Competencies
Commitment (Passion & Long-term Involvement in Civil Society Issues)
- Years of active participation in civil society initiatives, campaigns, or organizations. o Number of projects or advocacy efforts sustained over time.
- Testimonials from colleagues, beneficiaries, or partners confirming dedication.
- Evidence of continuous learning (e.g., training, certifications, thought leadership in relevant areas).
Influence (Ability to Inspire & Mobilize Others)
- Size and diversity of the network actively engaged in advocacy or social change efforts.
- Demonstrated history of mobilizing communities, volunteers, or stakeholders for a cause.
- Media presence, public speaking engagements, or published content influencing public discourse.
- Social media engagement metrics (e.g., reach, shares, meaningful interactions on advocacy content).
Innovation (Creative Problem-Solving & Adaptability)
- Case studies or examples of innovative solutions implemented in past projects. o Ability to pivot and adjust strategies in response to challenges or emerging issues. o Feedback from peers or supervisors on the effectiveness of problem-solving skills. o Recognition or awards for innovative contributions to civil society or advocacy work. 4. Communication (Articulation of Ideas & Digital Proficiency)
- Public speaking experience, clarity, and ability to engage diverse audiences. o Published articles, blog posts, or policy papers demonstrating thought leadership. o Digital communication effectiveness (e.g., social media advocacy, use of multimedia). o Feedback from stakeholders on the clarity and impact of messaging.
Integrity (Ethical Standards & Alignment with Organizational Values)
- Reputation for ethical behavior and transparency in decision-making.
- Endorsements or references from respected figures in civil society.
- No history of misconduct, conflicts of interest, or actions contrary to stated values. o Willingness to adhere to governance, compliance, and accountability standards in civil society work.
If you know any individual who meets this criteria, you are invited to nominate them through this form: https://forms.gle/w8A9VmTuu64Ab98z7
by Inuka Kenya | Jul 26, 2025 | Press Statements, Stories
At Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi! we are alarmed by the growing public narrative being pushed by government officials that seeks to shift responsibility for the state of Kenya’s education system from the government to struggling parents. Recent statements by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi that the country “is broke” and cannot sustain free education, as well as Baringo County Women Representative Jematiah Sergon’s remarks questioning the value of free education and bursaries, are not only misleading, they are dangerous.
The Constitution of Kenya is unequivocal. Article 43 (1) (f) says that every person has the right to education. Further, Article 53(1) (b) declares that every child has the right to free and compulsory basic education. This is not a token of generosity or a subject for political debate. It is a right and one that cannot be suspended simply because the government has failed to manage its finances prudently.
The attempt to rewrite the core principles of our Constitution and conveniently ignore the true problem: chronic underfunding, mismanagement, and a failure of accountability in public education. The government should stop deflecting blame. The education budget has seen deep cuts this financial year. Free Primary Education was reduced to KES 7 billion, Junior Secondary capped at KES 28.9 billion, and Free Day Secondary slashed to KES 51.9 billion. Capitation disbursements remain delayed, and arrears owed to schools exceed KES 64 billion. Instead of trimming lifelines, the state should be reforming procurement systems, recovering lost public funds, and prioritizing basic education in budget allocations.
Instead of criminalising learners and low-income parents, the national conversation must turn its focus to the real issues. The Auditor General’s recent report exposed a ghost school in Bomet County receiving fifty million shillings in capitation funds despite not existing at all. This shocking revelation confirms what communities have long known: that Kenya’s education crisis is not about affordability, but about transparency, integrity, and accountability.
It is unacceptable that while learners in public schools sit in crowded classes or under trees in some areas, share torn textbooks, and face teacher shortages, non-existent institutions are receiving public money with no consequences. Yet, rather than address these systemic failures, public officials are now implying that free education equals poor quality, or that parents have become irresponsible because bursaries exist. This is scapegoating not leadership.
Kenyan parents, especially those living in informal settlements and arid regions, understand the value of education. Many go without meals to ensure their children attend school. It is an insult to their sacrifice to suggest that state support diminishes their commitment. Quality education does not depend on whether it is free. It depends on whether it is properly resourced, equitably managed, and protected from theft.
We demand:
- A public apology from CS John Mbadi for his irresponsible utterances and Ms Jematiah Sergon for her remarks undermining the dignity of poor parents and the value of free education.
- Restoration and protection of the education budget to reflect the constitutional right to free and quality basic education.
- Institutional reforms within the Ministry of Education and Treasury to plug leakages and ensure future integrity in public education financing.
- Thorough investigations and prosecutions of all individuals involved in misappropriating education-related resources.
Signed,
Dr. Kawive, Wambua
Chief Executive Officer
Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi!
by Inuka Kenya | Jun 27, 2025 | Press Statements, Stories
We, the Nakuru County Civil Society Organizations, in partnership with Inuka Kenya ni Sisi, strongly condemn the dangerous and reckless remarks made by the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and national administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, who publicly instructed police to “shoot to kill” citizens accessing police stations if they happen to go close to them. This dangerous directive stands in direct opposition to the spirit and letter of our Constitution and violates the National Police Service’s own motto, “Utumishi kwa Wote” (Service to All). This motto is not a slogan to be printed on banners. It is a public promise. A commitment to serve every Kenyan with dignity, fairness, and respect.
Our observations during the 25th genz commemoration protest are as follows;
- Commendation for Police Restraint in Some Regions
We commend the professionalism and restraint demonstrated by some members of the National Police Service during the recent protests. In various parts of the country, law enforcement officers carried out their mandate under the Constitution, ensuring peaceful demonstrations proceeded without incidents of violence, vandalism, or destruction of property.
We particularly recognize the actions of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Ambrose Kyalo in Meru County-Imenti North, who walked side by side with protesters, assuring them of their safety and working to prevent any infiltration or escalation. In Mombasa County, efforts by politicians to disrupt protests by deploying hired goons were decisively thwarted by the police, safeguarding the integrity of peaceful demonstrations.
- Condemnation of Violence Against Police Officers
While we remain firm in condemning any form of police brutality and excessive use of force, we are equally disturbed by isolated incidents where protesters or criminal elements turned against police officers who were exercising restraint. Such actions are unacceptable and undermine the spirit of peaceful civic engagement. We urge the public to uphold nonviolence and dignity even in the face of provocation.
- Alarming “Shoot-to-Kill” Directive
We express our grave concern over reported directives or statements by Cs Murkomen, calling for a “shoot-to-kill” approach in managing protests. Such rhetoric is reckless, unconstitutional, and endangers the lives of innocent citizens. The use of lethal force is only permissible as a last resort and must always be preceded by lawful procedures and accountability mechanisms. We call for an immediate retraction of such statements and urge all leaders to respect the right to life as enshrined in the Constitution.
- Politically Sponsored Infiltration and Weaponization of Protests
We have witnessed incidents of politically sponsored goons who have infiltrated otherwise peaceful demonstrations to incite violence, loot businesses, and discredit the legitimacy of the Gen Z-led movement. This is a dangerous tactic that puts lives at risk and compromises public trust. We call on security agencies to investigate and hold accountable all those involved in such schemes.
- Clampdown on Media and Independent Reporting
We are deeply alarmed by attempts to intimidate, threaten, or shut down independent media houses and journalists covering the protests. A free press is an essential pillar of any democracy. Journalists must be allowed to operate without fear of harassment or censorship. We urge the government and all security agencies to respect press freedom and facilitate unhindered access to information.
The Gen Z protests are a wake-up call to the nation. They reflect a generation demanding dignity, justice, and genuine change. The government’s response must be rooted in dialogue, constitutionalism, and respect for human rights—not fear, violence, or repression.
We stand in solidarity with all Kenyans advocating for a better future and call upon all state and non-state actors to protect the civic space and uphold the rights enshrined in our Constitution.
Our Immediate Demands
- Immediate withdrawal and apology for the “shoot to kill” order.
- Halt the deployment of goons and respect the constitutional right to protest. 3. Institute national dialogue forums at county level with youth, civil society, and security agencies.
- Mandatory police training in human rights, trauma awareness, and crowd control. 5. Presidential assurance that protestors will be protected—not persecuted.
The solution lies not in bullets, but in listening. Not in denial, but in dialogue.
Issued by:
Nakuru County Civil Society Organizations & Inuka Kenya ni Sisi
by Inuka Kenya | Jun 25, 2025 | Articles, Stories
Where did our humanity go?
That’s the question still hanging heavy in the air, one year since Kenya lost her young mashujaa-the Gen Z heroes who dared to dream out loud. They marched not with weapons, but with placards, water and phones. They carried flags, not stones. They sang for justice, not war. And yet, the State met them with rage.
June 2024 is etched in our history-not just as a protest, but as a heartbreak. As we mark one year since that turning point, we remember not just the fallen, but the fire they lit in all of us.
But this wasn’t the first time our nation tasted blood.
From the dark reign of President Moi, where whispers could get you jailed, to the early promises of reform under Kibaki, and into the digital resistance under Uhuru, one truth has remained: police brutality is deeply rooted in Kenya’s political soil. It did not start yesterday. It’s a shadow that has followed us for generations.
Back then, it was campus raids and Nyayo House torture cells. Today, it’s bullets to the chest and unmarked cars disappearing youth. What changed? Very little, except now, the victims are livestreaming their arrests. The nation is watching in real time.
And yet, we passed a Constitution in 2010. A people’s document. A promise of freedom. Of dignity. Of justice. We were proud. We thought we had arrived.
But in the alleyways of Dandora, the corners of Kayole, the fields of Isiolo, the coast of Mombasa, the estates of Kisumu, the hills of Meru, the towns of Kakamega, and the streets of Nairobi-young people are still dying at the hands of those meant to protect them. From Turkana to Kilifi, Embu to Eldoret, the same cries rise.
Where is our humanity?
We see police not as allies, but as threats. We fear the uniform. And it’s not just about the youth in the so-called “hotspots.” It’s nationwide. From highrise flats to remote villages, no one is safe from the State’s iron hand when it feels threatened by its own citizens.
And when Gen Z stood up,creatively, courageously, unapologetically, they reminded us what democracy should look like. They rejected tribal puppetry. They organized without politicians. They educated each other on the Constitution more effectively than civic education ever did. And they did it with humour, music, memes, and skits
But the cost was high.
We lost young lives. Bright minds. Unarmed warriors. Some were shot. Others were abducted. Many were tortured. And yet, they never picked up violence-they held onto dignity. That is utu. That is strength.
Police officers, too, are victims of a broken system,trained to obey, not to think. Many are poor, frustrated, and scared. But being a victim of the system does not justify becoming an agent of oppression. When the police protect power instead of people, the law becomes lawless.
So, as we remember the one-year mark since the Gen Z revolution took center stage, we ask: how many more must die before we fix the system?
This is not just a moment. It’s a movement.
It’s not just about Gen Z. It’s about Kenya.
If we continue to normalize brutality, we normalize silence. If we continue to bury the truth, we bury our future.
The Constitution wasn’t meant to gather dust. It was meant to be lived. To protect. To heal. To serve. We owe it to those we’ve lost to make it real.
Let this anniversary not just be about remembrance, but about recommitment. To justice. To truth. To utu.
Because when one Gen Z fell, a hundred more rose. And they are not backing down.
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