Public Hearings are an opportunity for individuals and organizations to share their stories and give their opinions about the state of sexual and reproductive health rights in Kenya. Five panellists consisting KNCHR Commissioners and two external experts in the field of sexual and reproductive health will sit on the Inquiry Panel that will listen to statements from witnesses.
How can I participate in the the Public Hearings?
Individuals and groups can attend the Public Hearings and either make an oral statement to the panel or a written statement to the KNCHR Inquiry team.
How will the Public Hearings run?
Although witnesses are expected to tell the truth, the Public Hearings will not be like a court of law. It will be inquisitorial, not adversarial. This means that witnesses will be not be ‘cross examined’ on their statements, but the panellists may ask questions or clarifications or probe further into any issue.
Can I give confidential information?
Yes. KNCHR will not reveal the identity of anyone who provides information except where authorized and information will only be used for the benefit of the inquiry.
How will the Public Hearings run?
Public Hearings are an opportunity for individuals and organizations to share their stories and give their opinions about the state of sexual and reproductive health rights in Kenya. Five panellists consisting KNCHR Commissioners and two external experts in the field of sexual and reproductive health will sit on the Inquiry Panel that will listen to statements from witnesses.
Although witnesses are expected to tell the truth, the Public Hearings will not be like a court of law. It will be inquisitorial, not adversarial. This means that witnesses will be not be ‘cross examined’ on their statements, but the panellists may ask questions or clarifications or probe further into any issue.
Will the Inquiry resolve individual cases?
No. It is beyond the terms of reference of the inquiry to address individual cases. However, KNCHR has a fully fledged complains and investigations department that investigates individual cases of general human rights violations and offers appropriate redress. KNCHR will also partner with civil society organizations in the course of the inquiry to refer individuals who have suffered sexual and reproductive rights violations for assistance, where appropriate.
When are the Public Hearings?
Region | Dates | Venue |
Nairobi | 8th – 9th June | Ufungamano House |
Coast | 16th – 17th June | Tononoka Social Hall |
North Rift | 12th – 13th July | Kitale County Hall |
Nyanza and Western | 15th – 16th July | Kisumu Social Hall |
Eastern and Central | 21st – 22nd July | Embu County Hall |
North Eastern | 27th – 28th July | Garissa Public Library |
