A section of Mombasa-based civil society and human rights groups has strongly condemned what they described as persistent wrangles and coordinated attempts by some activists to tarnish the image and progress of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), particularly following the recently concluded recruitment of youths into various positions.
Speaking on behalf of the groups, Julius Ogogo, the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Litigation Trust, said it was time for leaders and activists to focus on development, good governance, and unity instead of politicizing national institutions.
Ogogo defended KPA, describing it as a national parastatal that serves all Kenyans regardless of tribe, region, or political affiliation. He warned against efforts aimed at creating division and public mistrust around the institution.
Activist Hussein Khalid and VOCAL Africa have reportedly spearheaded a legal challenge contesting the recent recruitment exercise at KPA. His remarks come amid that challenge.
“Those fighting parastatals like KPA should reflect on the benefits locals have gained and the tremendous improvements witnessed at the port. In 2024, the port recorded over 40 million metric tons in cargo throughput, and that figure has now risen to more than 45 million metric tons,” Ogogo stated.
Evans Momanyi and a section of women leaders from Mombasa led by Margret “Mama Ambasa” Omuga echoed the sentiments.
Momanyi strongly criticized what he termed sustained misinformation, propaganda, and attacks targeting Kenya Ports Authority, insisting that people must engage public institutions through lawful, professional, and constitutional means.
“As stakeholders from the Coast region, we firmly believe that public institutions must be engaged responsibly and within the framework of the Constitution. While Article 33 guarantees freedom of expression, that freedom must not be abused to spread false information, incitement, defamation, or propaganda meant to destabilize institutions and mislead the public,” he said.
On her part, Mama Ambasa emphasized that Article 10 of the Constitution outlines national values and principles of governance, including integrity, accountability, patriotism, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.
“The Kenya Ports Authority remains a strategic national asset that supports thousands of livelihoods directly and indirectly across the Coast region and the entire country,” she stated.
She stated that discussions about leadership, employment, and operations at KPA should rely on facts, lawful procedures, and constructive engagement, not on emotional narratives, political incitement, or coordinated attacks that create unnecessary tension among wananchi.
She further urged leaders and activists to embrace unity, peace, and development-focused leadership for the benefit of the Coast region and the country at large.
“The Coast region deserves peace, unity, development, and solutions-oriented leadership,” she added.
She also urged all parties to prioritize dialogue, professionalism, and respect for institutions for the economic growth of the region and the nation.
Featured image: HAKI Africa on Facebook
