Mombasa: The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has reiterated its commitment to support families of victims of enforced disappearances and ensuring accountability in line with the Constitution. Principal Public Prosecution Counsel, Keya Ombele, emphasized the ODPP's role as a crucial component of Kenya's justice system, responsible for safeguarding citizens' rights and delivering justice impartially.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ombele stated, "It is within our mandate to ensure that justice is served in equal measure. We are ambassadors of justice to all Kenyans," highlighting the ODPP's focus on prioritizing justice for victims and their families. Ombele was addressing a community dialogue in Mombasa organized by human rights defenders, aimed at discussing the plight of families affected by enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
Ombele underscored the necessity of collaboration between state agencies, civil society organizations, and communities to combat these human rights violations. She clarified that while the ODPP does not conduct investigations, it plays a crucial role in reviewing evidence from investigative bodies and ensuring perpetrators face justice in court.
The forum gathered a diverse group of human rights organizations, including Missing Voices, Amnesty International, the Defenders Coalition, Haki Africa, and Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI). Independent government oversight bodies such as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) also participated in the meeting.
This gathering provided an opportunity for victims' families to share their experiences and advocate for stronger accountability mechanisms to combat impunity related to enforced disappearances. Human rights groups at the event welcomed the ODPP's commitment, stressing the importance of sustained collaboration between institutions and civil society to secure justice for victims and prevent future violations.
Enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings continue to be significant concerns in Kenya, with activists and oversight bodies persistently calling for enhanced transparency, accountability, and protection of fundamental human rights. Ombele reiterated the ODPP's resolve to uphold its constitutional mandate in support of victims, prosecute offenders, and bolster public confidence in the justice system.