Kamukunji marks 75th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights with calls for equality and justice

Eastleigh resident who attended the event to mark 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

By Patel Okumu
Thursday, December 7, 2023

In a momentous event held at Paradise Hall, Eastleigh today marked the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

In a momentous event held at Paradise Hall, Kamukunji today marked the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The ceremony, led by Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan, drew attention to the importance of upholding human rights in the community.

Wajir South MP Mohammed Adow, who is the secretary of Parliamentary caucus on Human Rights, emphasised the significance of human rights, citing Islamic teachings that uphold these values. Adow also addressed the recent challenges faced by regions in the North Eastern area, particularly the neglect exposed by the El Nino floods. He urged the government to prioritise infrastructure, especially the road network in the North Eastern region.

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Houghton Irungu, Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya, giving his address

The event saw the participation of key figures such as Li Fung of the UN Human Rights office, Houghton Irungu, Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya, and Ahmed Yare, Chairman of the Eastleigh Business Association.

Ahmed Yare shared the origins of the Eastleigh Business Association, stating, “Our association was formed to defend the rights of Somali people who had fled from Somalia following the collapse of Siad Barre’s regime. Today, Eastleigh residents are treated with dignity, and their human rights are upheld."

Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan join Eastleigh Band in an entertaining dance.

Houghton Irungu, the keynote speaker, highlighted the heroic actions of Hassan Mohamed, who raised money in Eastleigh to support the Mau Mau during Kenya's fight for independence. Irungu highlighted Amnesty International's advocacy for equal treatment and condemned any profiling of Somalis once the government starts issuing Digital Identity cards.

Irungu also called for dignified treatment of Eastleigh and Kamukunji residents by police officers, emphasising equality and the absence of second-class citizens. He extended his concerns to the plight of Palestinians in Gaza, urging solidarity in condemning Israel’s actions and stressing that everyone has rights.

Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan reiterated the importance of human rights, noting, "There are 30 rights and freedoms that belong to all of us, forming the bedrock of international law governing the conduct of nations and people worldwide." He applauded humanity's progress in achieving freedom, social justice, and peace since the end of colonialism.

Yusuf concluded by calling on leaders and advocates of the rule of law to condemn the ongoing events in Gaza, stating, "We cannot remain silent in the face of Israel's onslaught against the defenseless civilians of Gaza and the killing of thousands of women and children."

The ceremony concluded with a screening of the film "No One Leaves Home," shedding light on the plight of refugees in Kenya, followed by entertaining performances from the Eastleigh Band. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of universal human rights and the ongoing commitment to their protection and promotion.