Activists want Dutch royal couple to hold Ruto’s govt accountable for abductions during state visit
The activists, led by Amnesty International Kenya, want the visiting Dutch officials to hold Kenyan authorities accountable for the ongoing human rights violations.
Human rights activists have called on the Dutch delegation, led by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, to prioritise human rights issues, including abductions and violent crackdowns on protests, during their state visit to Kenya from March 18 to 20, 2025.
The activists, led by Amnesty International Kenya, want the visiting Dutch officials to hold Kenyan authorities accountable for the ongoing human rights violations.
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According to Amnesty, the violations have seen over 60 protesters killed and at least 80 activists abducted in the past nine months.
“As Dutch authorities prepare for the official state visit to Kenya, we call on both governments to place human rights at the heart of their discussions. There must be accountability for the victims of the recent brutal crackdowns,” Amnesty International Kenya Director Irungu Houghton, said in a statement on Saturday.
The organisation insists that the Netherlands must use its diplomatic influence to push for transparency and justice for victims of excessive force by the police. The group has also raised concerns over masked agents abducting activists with impunity, calling for an end to the violations.
“The three Dutch ministers and the Royal Couple must ensure human rights are central to diplomatic relations. Economic, military, and other interests should not take precedence over fundamental rights,” Houghton added.
The state visit follows an invitation from President William Ruto and is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. According to the Royal House of the Netherlands, the visit highlights the close ties and growing cooperation in various sectors, including sustainable agriculture and water management.
“Kenya plays an increasingly influential role on the global stage. The two countries maintain close economic ties as key hubs and gateways to larger regions,” the Royal House said in a statement.
The statement also highlighted Kenya and the Netherlands’ collaboration in international organisations, focusing on democracy, the rule of law, and judicial independence. Other key areas of cooperation include peace and security, climate change and food security.
King Willem-Alexander, who ascended to the throne in 2013, plays a largely ceremonial role under the Dutch Constitution. However, his presence in Kenya, alongside top ministers, is expected to reinforce diplomatic ties and signal the Netherlands’ commitment to mutual interests with Kenya.
With the visit set to include economic missions alongside official engagements, human rights activists remain adamant that accountability for state-sponsored violence must not be overshadowed by trade and investment discussions.
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