The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations has issued a final call for the British Army Training Unit in Kenya (BATUK) to appear in Parliament.
Chaired by Nelson Koech, the Committee met with Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Principal Secretary Mr. Patrick Mariru to discuss ongoing investigations into BATUK’s conduct.
The inquiry, now in its second year, follows concerns raised by Members of Parliament over allegations of human rights violations, environmental degradation, and unresolved criminal cases, including the 2012 death of Agnes Wanjiru in Nanyuki.
“This Committee has the power to invite any person to appear before it to provide evidence or information,” Hon. Koech said. “We represent the people of Kenya, and we expect BATUK to honour our institutions by cooperating fully with this inquiry.”
Lawmakers emphasised that the matter falls within its legislative oversight mandate. They cited Articles 5(2) and 6(1) of the DCA, which require visiting forces to operate in compliance with Kenyan laws, and reminded the Ministry of Defence of Article 125 of the Constitution.
During the session, several Members expressed deep concern over BATUK’s repeated absence.
Yusuf Hassan noted, “It is unfortunate that a foreign government has declined to appear before this Committee on a matter that directly affects Kenyan citizens. You cannot come to a country and shield alleged perpetrators of serious crimes.”
Memusi Kanchory added, “We have travelled to Laikipia and Samburu to listen to the people. The repeated failure by BATUK to appear before us is a sign of contempt for this Committee and Parliament.”
On his part, Joshua Kandie emphasised, “Kenya is a sovereign state. We expect our partners to respect our people and our institutions.”
In her response, CS Tuya confirmed that formal communication had been sent to BATUK and the British Government through the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. She assured Members that the Government remains committed to ensuring BATUK’s appearance before the Committee.
The Committee has already held public hearings in Samburu, Laikipia and Isiolo counties, and engaged key national agencies including the Inspector General of Police, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the National Environmental Management Authority, and the Kenya Wildlife Service.
“This is our country. We must protect and give answers to our people,” Nelson Koech said. “We are giving BATUK a final opportunity to appear before us or send written submissions to address the concerns raised by Kenyans and conclude this inquiry.”
