During his visit to Kenya, King Charles III expressed that there can be “no excuse” for the atrocities committed against Kenyans during British colonial rule, acknowledging the abhorrent and unjustifiable acts of violence that occurred during the country’s struggle for independence. While he did not explicitly ask for forgiveness, the British monarch hoped to meet with those affected by colonial abuse and emphasized the importance of approaching history with honesty and openness. This visit, which coincides with the 60th anniversary of Kenya’s independence, marks Charles III’s first visit as King to a Commonwealth country.
The visit aims to strengthen the partnership between the United Kingdom and Kenya, but also to address the painful aspects of their shared history, including the Mau Mau revolt, during which over 10,000 people died. In 2013, the UK agreed to compensate more than 5,000 Kenyans who were victims of abuse during the Mau Mau uprising, expressing “sincere regret” for colonial violence. However, organizations like the Kenyan Human Rights Commission (KHRC) have called for an unconditional and unequivocal public apology on behalf of the British government, along with reparations for the brutal treatment inflicted on Kenyan citizens throughout the colonial period from 1895 to 1963.
Source: Africanews
