By Orenge Wycliff
Senator Richard Onyonka Declines Invitation to New Year’s Eve Dinner in Protest of Government’s Handling of Abductions and Rights Violations
Nairobi Kenya: In a powerful statement made on December 31, 2024, Hon. Richard Momoima Onyonka, the Senator for Kisii County, expressed his deep disappointment and concern over the state of affairs in Kenya. The senator declined an invitation to attend the State New Year-Eve Dinner at the Kisii State Lodge, citing ongoing issues of abductions, corruption, and violations of citizens’ rights under the current administration. His decision, made public in a heartfelt statement, underscores the growing frustration among Kenyans regarding the government’s failure to address these concerns.
The year 2024 has been marked by political and social turbulence, and Onyonka’s decision to abstain from the festive occasion reflects the difficult reality that many Kenyans are facing. While many around the country prepared to ring in the New Year with celebrations, Senator Onyonka highlighted the painful contrast experienced by families whose loved ones have been victims of abductions and arbitrary arrests.
In his statement, Onyonka called the year 2024 “tumultuous and painful” for the people of Kenya. He described the ongoing abductions, coupled with the widespread corruption and violation of citizens’ rights, as deeply troubling. The senator’s words are a stark reminder of the distress many Kenyans have felt throughout the year.
“The ongoing abductions, corruption, and violation of the people’s rights, especially to young Kenyans, is sad and painful to many,” Onyonka wrote in the statement. “It’s sad to remember our past. It means Kenya is going back to factory settings; indeed, history repeats itself.” His remarks reflect a sense of disillusionment and concern over the state of governance in the country.
The senator’s comments about the government’s failure to heed the cries of the people are also significant. He criticized President William Ruto for failing to listen to the widespread calls for justice and human rights protections, despite numerous pleas from the public. Onyonka specifically pointed to the continued detentions and disappearances of young Kenyans, urging the president to take immediate action.
“Expectations are that after these pleas from Kenyans of all walks of life, the Head of State, in his New Year clarion call for unity of purpose, magnanimity, and brotherliness to all Kenyans, would have released these young Kenyans who were abducted and some arrested,” Onyonka said. “He has not.”
Onyonka’s decision to skip the New Year’s Eve Dinner at Kisii State Lodge is an act of protest that highlights the disconnect between the elite and ordinary Kenyans, many of whom are suffering. The senator expressed his discomfort at the idea of celebrating while many families are in mourning, unsure of the whereabouts of their loved ones. His message is a call for solidarity with the families affected by these human rights violations.
“I’m uncomfortable with the idea that some of us will be normal, happy, and excited with color and pomp when other Kenyan families are agonizing in pain looking for their loved ones to share during this season, but in vain,” Onyonka stated. His words reflect the emotional and moral dilemma faced by many citizens who are forced to reconcile the country’s festive atmosphere with the harsh reality of injustice.
The senator’s powerful message resonates with many Kenyans who feel that their government has failed them. The issue of abductions, which has been a point of concern for human rights organizations, remains unresolved. Young people, particularly those involved in activism and advocacy, have been disproportionately affected by these disappearances. Families continue to search for answers, but the lack of accountability from government officials has left many feeling powerless.
In his statement, Onyonka also touched on the importance of fidelity to Kenya’s constitution, which guarantees the rights and freedoms of all its citizens. He expressed concern that the government’s actions have undermined the constitutional protections that should be afforded to all Kenyans, especially those who are vulnerable.
“Fidelity to our constitution is paramount to all Kenyans,” Onyonka emphasized. “We have always expected and hoped that the president would uphold the rule of law, but this has FAILED.” His frustration with the lack of progress on constitutional matters speaks to the broader dissatisfaction with Kenya’s leadership and governance.
This protest comes at a time when the Kenyan government has been under increasing pressure from human rights groups and activists to address the issue of enforced disappearances and the broader erosion of democratic rights. Reports of abductions have become a recurring theme in the public discourse, with many claiming that the government is complicit in these actions or turning a blind eye to them.
Onyonka’s refusal to attend the State New Year-Eve Dinner serves as a powerful statement in opposition to the government’s handling of these issues. It is a reminder that political leaders, no matter their rank, must be accountable to the people they serve. By choosing not to attend the event, Onyonka is sending a clear message that the celebration of a New Year should not come at the expense of justice and human dignity.
The senator’s message resonates deeply with many Kenyans who feel that their voices are not being heard by the current administration. His bold stance may inspire other leaders and citizens to take a stand against injustice and to demand accountability from those in power.
As Kenya enters 2025, the call for justice and the protection of human rights continues to echo across the nation. With the government facing increasing scrutiny, the hope for a more just and transparent future remains strong. However, as Onyonka’s statement illustrates, the road to such a future will require significant changes in leadership and governance.
In conclusion, Senator Richard Onyonka’s decision to forgo the New Year’s Eve Dinner at Kisii State Lodge is more than just a personal protest; it is a statement of solidarity with the families of abducted and disappeared Kenyans. It is a call for justice, accountability, and a renewed commitment to the principles of the Kenyan constitution. As the nation reflects on the past year, the hope is that 2025 will bring with it a renewed commitment to the rule of law and the protection of human rights for all citizens.
Related stories:
- Kenyans Demand Justice for Abducted Citizens
- Human Rights Groups Criticize Government’s Response to Abductions
- Senator Onyonka’s Stand on Human Rights: A Call for Accountability
Thank you and God bless Kenya – Hon. Richard Momoima Onyonka
Published on December 31, 2024
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