The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has clarified its stance on the allegations surrounding the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK), stating that the reported violations fall outside its jurisdiction. Despite receiving numerous complaints, the EACC has refrained from taking action.

This development emerged during an inquiry led by the National Assembly’s Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations Committee, which is investigating claims of misconduct, human rights abuses, and operational irregularities involving BATUK.

In a recent meeting, the EACC disclosed that it had received three separate reports accusing BATUK of nepotism, corruption, and labor disputes. However, the Commission determined that these matters were beyond its scope of authority.

Committee Vice Chair Bashir Abdullahi (Mandera North) spearheaded discussions with representatives from the Mau Mau Veterans Association, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and residents of Laikipia, Isiolo, and Samburu counties. During these discussions, Committee Members emphasized the need for legislative changes to empower the EACC to address issues related to Trade, Economic, and Corporate Agreements.

The inquiry comes in response to growing public concern over the behavior of British troops stationed in Kenya, particularly in Laikipia and Samburu counties. On June 14, the National Assembly’s Committee launched an investigation into BATUK’s conduct, focusing on historical grievances and ongoing concerns.

Mau Mau Veterans Demand Justice

Ex-Mau Mau veteran Gitu wa Kahengeri, representing the Mau Mau Veterans Association, passionately recounted the sacrifices made by his generation for Kenya’s independence.

“We fought the British for the future of young Kenyans, not for ourselves. Our struggle ensured that our children could pursue education and opportunities,” Kahengeri asserted. He urged the Committee to hold the British accountable for past mistreatments and foster a more respectful relationship moving forward.

Kahengeri called on the Committee to recognize the hardships endured during the colonial era and to advocate for a declaration acknowledging Kenya’s prolonged occupation. He emphasized the need for the President to honor the gallant efforts of Kenya’s youth.

The Mau Mau Veterans Association has formally submitted a petition highlighting their grievances against BATUK’s continued presence. Committee Chair Nelson Koech assured them that their concerns would be addressed in the final report.

The Committee also heard from the Kenya Veterans for Peace and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), who documented various issues, including injuries, sexual assaults on local women by British soldiers, and the lack of investigations into these allegations. They also raised concerns about the unfair treatment of Kenyan employees at BATUK facilities.

The Kenya Veterans for Peace called for a review of the Kenya-UK Defence Cooperation Agreement, protections for potential victims, and a reconsideration of training locations. The KHRC demanded swift government action to address both historical and ongoing injustices.