Wetang’ula Calls for Building Bridges

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Wetang’ula reiterated that human rights challenges needed to be resolved through diplomacy and international cooperation.

Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang'ula meets H.E. Ambassador Olof Skoog, the European Union Special Representative for Human Rights. Photo by Moses Wetang'ula.

By Robert Mutsi
During his recent engagement with the Ambassador Olof Skoog, European Union Special Representative for Human Rights, Moses Wetang’ula, Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya, reiterated the need to have deeper partnerships in matters involving the protection of human rights.

Wetang’ula called for “building bridges rather than barriers” as an approach toward global collaboration and development.

Wetang’ula and Ambassador Skoog discussed ways through which the two could work together, especially in protecting citizens’ rights, politically, socially and civically, both at a national and international level.

Wetang’ula reiterated that human rights challenges needed to be resolved through diplomacy and international cooperation.

“We must endeavour in the building of bridges and not barriers,” he asserted, explaining the need for all dialogue processes in issues regarding human rights to be inclusive and open.

Other predominant issues discussed included the challenge of immigration, mainly between Western nations and Africa.

Wetang’ula also challenged the West to have a uniform immigration policy that will regulate migration and at the same time ensure the development of all countries concerned.

His call for balance in immigration is a reflection of the growing concern that most African countries are increasingly experiencing due to the tightening up of immigration policies and their impacts on the economy and society.

Ambassador Skoog supported Wetang’ula’s sentiments when he pointed out the increasing gap between Europe and Africa that needs to be bridged.

Institutions are important, he said, in ensuring the rule of law and building democracy to protect human rights.

The Special Envoy’s statement expressed Europe’s determination to act in concert with African countries toward the resolution of emerging challenges and the expansion of democratic governance.

Hon. George Murugara, Chairman, Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs joined Wetang’ula at the meeting.

Murugara asserted that his committee’s commitment would help realize fundamental human rights enjoyed through essential services like education, health, clean water, and a safe environment.

He said these collaborations marked the beginning of an end towards a more just and fair society, not only in Kenya but also in the entire world.

Wetang’ula concluded by assuring him of his commitment to championing the rights of all citizens, vowing to work with international partners to ensure that human rights remain among the top subjects in the global agenda.

The productive dialogue with Ambassador Skoog seals a new milestone in Kenya’s relations with the European Union in the interest of justice and protection of human rights.

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