Kenyan opposition leader and People’s Liberation Party (PLP) head Martha Karua has called on Presidents William Ruto and Yoweri Museveni to uphold citizens’ rights as the two leaders strengthen regional cooperation. The statement follows Sunday’s groundbreaking of the USD 500 million Devki Mega Steel Plant in Tororo, Uganda, attended by both presidents.
Karua emphasized that bilateral engagements should extend beyond leadership circles to include ordinary citizens.
“It is good that you visit each other as neighbors and friends. Do let us too, as citizens of Jumuiya, interact without the threat of being abducted or tortured,” she said, referencing the regional community treaty aimed at fostering cooperation and freedom of movement.
The PLP leader highlighted that the spirit of the Jumuiya is to promote the widest possible social, economic, and political interaction among member states’ citizens.
She urged both presidents to be accountable to the treaty, ensuring that development projects and diplomatic visits do not compromise citizen safety.
Sunday’s Devki Mega Steel Plant launch, led by Ugandan businessman Dr. Narendra Raval, is projected to employ over 15,000 Ugandans and serve both Uganda and Kenya.
President Ruto described the project as transformative, promising reduced import costs, job creation, and expanded regional trade.
Meanwhile, President Museveni framed the initiative as a step toward ending Africa’s reliance on raw material exports.
Karua’s comments introduce a political dimension to the bilateral visit, reminding leaders that economic milestones must coincide with human rights safeguards.
Her statement comes amid ongoing regional discussions on free movement, citizen protections, and economic integration under Jumuiya protocols.