Nairobi: In a private sector conversation held on the sidelines of the 21st Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) Annual General Meeting (AGM), members expressed concern over the escalation of the disregard for the rule of law, leading to the deaths of young Kenyans.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Association, in a press statement, has condoled with the families of those who have lost their lives or been injured in the hands of the security officers or otherwise while exercising their rights to peaceful assembly and when airing their grievances as enshrined in the constitution.
In the foregoing, the business community has been actively working closely with the government and other stakeholders to create a conducive business environment both inwardly and globally, and as a result, Kenya has grown into an attractive destination for business and foreign investment.
'We need to ensure that these efforts are not watered down so that businesses do not shut down due to the escalation of emotions and public unrest,' read the statement.
Further, KEPSA recognized the youth as an integral part of the business community, whether as entrepreneurs, employers, or employees, and therefore remains committed to addressing all concerns that will ensure the lives of all Kenyans are protected and sustainable jobs are created and maintained.
On the other hand, KEPSA also acknowledged the understanding that security officers do not always operate in the easiest environment. Nevertheless, even as they navigate the everyday challenges, the Association urged them to have the protection of lives and livelihoods at the forefront of their minds and hearts and follow the rule of law in executing their mandate.
'To the political class, we urge you to gauge your actions and utterances to avoid further weakening the social and economic fabric upon which our society, including the private sector, depends. The public, including the security officers, takes their cue from you, and the effects are felt widely, including by investors,' the statement read.
While the private sector advocates for a governance model that prioritizes public accountability and the peaceful expression of grievance as enshrined in the constitution, KEPSA called for an urgent de-escalation of the situation to prevent it from leading to further loss of life, destruction of property, and negative impacts on businesses.
Meanwhile, the Association has committed to continue engaging closely around these areas with the relevant stakeholders as well as under the Mkenya Daima Initiative. Mkenya Daima is an initiative inspired by the private sector but belongs to all Kenyans and represents a collective of diverse stakeholders, including the business community, religious leaders, and civil society, united in the pursuit of a prosperous and equitable Kenya.