Specifically, the Catholic activists argue that President Ruto’s vote gives the SOGI Expert and LGBT activists power to push for the legalization of same-sex unions, the promotion of “gender identity ideology in schools” and the silencing of “religious and cultural values that don’t conform to Western LGBT norms.”
The resolution to extend the SOGI Expert for an additional three years was passed by a vote of 29 in favour, 15 against, and 3 abstentions. Voting in favour, Kenya joined countries such as Chile, Germany, and South Africa in supporting the mandate, while several African nations and Qatar voted against.
President Ruto, who has previously affirmed his Christian identity in public forums, is yet to issue a statement in response to the petition.
With the deadline of noontime Wednesday, July 9, the Catholic activists aimed to push the Kenyan President “to issue a formal clarification at the UN, disassociating Kenya from this vote and making it clear that this decision does not reflect the will of the Kenyan people.”
“If President Ruto fails to act, this vote will remain on the record as Kenya’s official support for the LGBT agenda. That means activist groups, international donors, and UN officials will use it to attack your values, your laws, and your children’s future,” they say in the petition that was launched on Tuesday, July 8.
In the letter to President Ruto published alongside the petition, the Catholic activists say that signatories to the petition “express our deep outrage and urgent concern regarding Kenya’s vote” at the UNHRC.
“This vote was cast without public consultation and without the consent of the Kenyan people. It contradicts our Constitution, which clearly affirms the family as the natural and fundamental unit of society, and rejects ideologies that threaten our cultural, religious, and moral fabric,” they lament.
The Catholic activists further lament, “We are grieved, disappointed, and angry that Kenya's name is now being used to endorse policies that endanger our children, redefine our families, and open the door to foreign ideological control.”
“We are watching. We are praying. And we expect action. Your duty is to defend Kenya’s identity—not to surrender it behind closed doors in Geneva,” the Catholic activists say, and tell President Ruto, “Withdraw Kenya’s support. Clarify the vote. Protect our nation’s soul.”
Charles Muchiri contributed to the writing of this story
