The UK government has said that unity and reconciliation between political leaders must be supported by rebuilding of state institutions.
In an address to Kisumu County Assembly on Tuesday, British High Commissioner to Kenya Nic Hailey, said his government supported any constructive dialogue between political leaders.
He, however, said that dialogue must not be for politicians’ personal gain.
“The dialogue should include strengthening of institutions and prevent politicians from tearing down the common fabric which holds Kenya together,” said Mr Hailey.
“I call for a follow up of this month’s historic handshake (between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Nasa leader Raila Odinga) to grapple with the big issues on Kenya’s future,” he said.
“Leaders should take their full share of responsibility in building the common future which Kenya needs,” he added.
FIRST VISIT
Mr Hailey was on his first official visit to Kisumu since political temperatures cooled following a ‘handshake’ between President Kenyatta and Mr Odinga.
The envoy reiterated UK’s call that genuine reconciliation, between political leaders, should be followed by an open and sustained dialogue involving politicians, religious and civic leaders among other players.
The UK, like the US and the European Union, had been pushing for constructive dialogue after the 2017 electioneering period.
And in Kisumu, where the police was accused of maiming and killing protesters, local Ward representatives demanded for justice for victims of police brutality.
Nyalenda B Ward Rep Joseph Olale asked the government and the international community to intervene in the case of self-proclaimed National Resistance Movement general Mr Miguna Miguna’s, who has been denied entry into the country since Monday.
“We thought the handshake was for the good of the country, we feel misled and used. We want the international community to intervene so that Mr Miguna can be allowed into the country,” said Mr Olale.
Mr Hailey, who did not comment on Mr Miguna’s case, called for greater responsibility among security forces.
IMPORTANT JOB
“The police have an important job to do in maintaining order, and that can be tough,” he said.
“But where people are killed or abuses alleged, they must be investigated and those responsible held to account,” he said.
His quest for justice for Kisumu comes amidst calls by local leaders for justice for victims of post-election violence.
In October last year, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International documented at least 67 killings during protests by opposition supporters after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission declared President Kenyatta winner of the August 8 polls.
INVESTORS EXCITED
He however, indicated that the region, should support play its role in supporting and strengthening institutions.
He said that he was aware that business was picking up in Kisumu and investors were excited about new investment opportunities following the unity deal between President Kenyatta and Mr Odinga.
The envoy said it was the right time to deal with, not just with the aftermath of last year’s elections, but also with the underlying issues which would help the country and Nyanza region prosper.