KNCHR warns Ruto over foreign traders crackdown, says Kenya risks human rights violations

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has cautioned President William Ruto's administration over its crackdown on foreign traders, warning that such actions could lead to human rights violations if not carried out lawfully and fairly. In a statement on September 8, 2026, the commission expressed concern over the government's recent directives targeting small-scale businesses run by foreign nationals.

KNCHR Chairperson Claris Ogangah highlighted that they have received complaints from migrant and refugee communities regarding threats, intimidation, and discriminatory treatment. The commission's intervention follows President Ruto's order to close down businesses operated by foreigners and as the government began enforcing restrictions against undocumented traders across Kenya.

KNCHR Chairperson Claris Ogangah revealed that the commission has received petitions from refugee communities and other migrant populations in several counties, with claims of human rights concerns linked to the government's enforcement measures. Examples of such complaints include threats, intimidation, and online attacks directed at foreigners.

KNCHR emphasized that the issue is not confined to a single locality, citing reports from Miritini in Mombasa County. The commission also noted that the government has announced a temporary registration window for undocumented East African nationals, aiming to provide assistance and presume the legality of their status during the process.

The government insists that the crackdown targets foreigners operating without valid work permits and not all foreign nationals residing in Kenya. KNCHR acknowledged the government's right to regulate immigration, employment, trade, and investment but cautioned that these powers must be exercised in accordance with the Constitution and Kenya's regional and international obligations.

The commission reminded the government of the East African Community Common Market Protocol, which guarantees the free movement of persons, labour, services, capital, and rights of establishment among Partner States. The commission warned that Kenya must avoid violations and implement preventive safeguards, drawing lessons from the 2014 Operation Usalama Watch.

KNCHR called for the establishment of clear mechanisms for affected persons to verify their immigration status, obtain information, and regularize their documentation. The commission urged the government to protect refugees, asylum seekers, trafficking victims, migrant workers, and children through special measures. Furthermore, KNCHR recommended nationwide monitoring of enforcement efforts, publishing data on complaints, arrests, closures, and deportations, and investigating abuse allegations by law enforcement or the public.

The commission also appealed to Kenyans not to take the law into their own hands, warning against physical or online harassment, intimidation, violence, or discrimination against foreign nationals. KNCHR pledged to continue monitoring the situation, engage with government agencies, migrant communities, and refugees, and document any alleged violations for potential investigations or legal action.

Anyone experiencing or witnessing human rights abuses is urged to report incidents to the police or directly to KNCHR.