Petition challenges Kenya-US mining deal over public participation concerns
via Tuko3 min read
The Centre for Litigation Trust has filed a petition in Kenya's High Court to halt a proposed KSh 9.7 trillion agreement between Kenya and the United States for rare earth mineral exploitation at Mrima Hill in Kwale county. The lobby group argues that the deal, which President William Ruto mentioned during the G7 Summit, was negotiated without public participation, parliamentary approval, or involvement from the Kwale County Government and local communities. The petition names Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and the Attorney-General as respondents, with the Kwale County Government, Kenya Forest Service, and National Museums of Kenya as interested parties. Petitioner Julius Ogogoh states that critical details of the arrangement, including contract terms, environmental impact assessments, ownership structure, and benefit-sharing framework, remain undisclosed. Mrima Hill is a gazetted National Monument and a sacred Kaya forest, and the petition raises concerns about the legality of mining activities there under the Mining Act, as well as potential environmental impacts from toxic chemicals and radioactive waste. The Centre for Litigation Trust seeks declarations that constitutional requirements for public participation were violated, that parliamentary approval is mandatory, and that local communities and the Kwale County Government must be involved in negotiations and benefit-sharing. They also seek an order for the Mining CS and Attorney-General to disclose the full terms
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
Kisumu is experiencing a division among its residents regarding the planned June 25 protests. One group marched against the demonstrations, carrying peace messages and white handkerchiefs, urging others to avoid the commemorative marches. They argued that the protests could disrupt peace, interfere with business operations, and negatively affect economic activities. Some anti-protest demonstrators chanted slogans supporting President William Ruto's bid for two terms and called for political stability. In contrast, another group, led by activist Boniface Akach, has vowed to proceed with peaceful commemorative demonstrations on Thursday. This group plans to start their procession at Kondele at 9 am, move through the city center, and deliver petitions to county and national government officials. They also intend to hold a candlelight vigil and prayers for young people who died during the 2024 protests. Akach raised concerns about potential infiltration by criminal elements and advised parents to keep children home and employees to boycott work in solidarity. He also appealed to business owners to temporarily close their premises due to reports of potential exploitation by criminals.
Human rights activist Bob Njagi was arrested in Kitengela, Kajiado County, on Wednesday, June 24, on allegations of planning and inciting public protests. The planned demonstrations were intended to honor individuals who died during the Gen Z protests on June 25, 2024. Kajiado County Police Commander Alex Shikondi confirmed Njagi's arrest, stating it followed the online circulation of a video showing Njagi rallying youth to protest. Shikondi declined to disclose Njagi's location due to security concerns. Authorities expressed fear that the video could lead to unrest and property destruction in Kitengela town. Shikondi assured local traders and residents of comprehensive security measures for Thursday, urging them to continue their daily routines without fear, and promised a heavy police presence. He warned that law enforcement would act decisively against any youth participating in protests or engaging in violence and vandalism.
Kenya is preparing to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking IDADA on Friday, June 26, at the NACADA Miritini Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa. The national event will gather government officials from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Mombasa County Government leaders, community-based organizations, youth representatives, and individuals in recovery. This year's commemoration aligns with the global theme, "World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," and will focus on emerging drug threats and innovative solutions. Key activities include discussions on Kenya's drug control policies, public awareness campaigns on synthetic drugs, and exhibitions showcasing rehabilitation approaches, including the expansion of NACADA's free women-focused recovery services. The event aims to reaffirm Kenya's commitment to stronger partnerships, technology-driven prevention, and evidence-based treatment programs. This comes as the National Police Service, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified operations against drug trafficking and illicit alcohol in Kilifi, Busia, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, and Kiambu counties, leading to arrests and seizures of bhang and chang'aa.