Mau Mau veterans criticize UK over reparations and military conduct

Secretary General Gitu Wa Kahengeri highlighted the UK's abstention from a UN vote recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as a grave crime and a proposal by Reform UK to deny visas to citizens of countries seeking reparations. Kahengeri stated these actions reinforce a pattern where Britain acknowledges historical injustices but resists legal or financial consequences. He noted that a 2013 settlement for Mau Mau survivors, which included a formal apology but no acceptance of legal liability, capped accountability rather than expanding it.

The association is now advocating for a comprehensive reparations framework. Additionally, the veterans raised concerns about the British Army Training Unit Kenya BATUK in Nanyuki, referencing a parliamentary inquiry that documented allegations including sexual violence, deaths from unexploded ordnance, and environmental damage. Kahengeri linked these incidents to the 2021 UK-Kenya Defence Cooperation Agreement, which he argues restricts Kenya's ability to prosecute British troops.

He dismissed remarks by Roland Walker, head of the British Army, as insufficient, citing a lack of consequences for soldiers and independent oversight. With the Defence Cooperation Agreement up for renegotiation by the end of 2026, the Mau Mau War Veterans Association plans to push for re