MMV Associates CLG Director General James Mahuria addressing members over the weekend. Photo/Courtesy.
By MKT Reporter
Mau Mau veterans and descendants of Kenya’s freedom fighters have renewed calls for unity among the country’s numerous Mau Mau associations, saying a common front is the only way to secure long-awaited recognition, justice and compensation from the government.
The appeal was made during a meeting in Thika convened by MMV Associates CLG, where veterans lamented that more than six decades after independence, many of those who fought against colonial rule continue to live in poverty while others have died without receiving any meaningful support from the State.
Led by the organisation’s Director General James Njuguna Mahuria, the veterans said internal divisions among various Mau Mau groups have weakened efforts to push for compensation and recognition, urging all associations to come together under one umbrella.
Mahuria said time was running out for surviving freedom fighters, many of whom are now elderly and in poor health, making it imperative for the government to expedite compensation and welfare programmes.
He noted that many veterans suffered torture, detention, permanent disabilities and loss of property during the liberation struggle, while thousands lost their lives in the fight for Kenya’s independence.
“It is unfortunate that many of our colleagues have died before receiving justice or recognition for the sacrifices they made. Those still alive deserve to live with dignity during their remaining years,” Mahuria said.
The veterans said successive governments have acknowledged the role played by the Mau Mau movement in securing independence, but argued that many former fighters and their families have yet to benefit from comprehensive compensation and social protection programmes.
They appealed to the government to establish a structured framework for identifying surviving freedom fighters and the families of deceased veterans to facilitate compensation, medical care and other forms of support.
The group also urged younger generations to preserve the history of the liberation struggle, saying the sacrifices made by freedom fighters should remain part of Kenya’s national heritage.
MMV Associates CLG Chief Executive Officer Emma Kassis said unity among Mau Mau organisations would strengthen their engagement with the government and eliminate the rivalry that has for years undermined their collective voice.
She called on all associations representing veterans and their descendants to set aside differences and pursue a shared agenda focused on justice, recognition and improved welfare.
“Our strength lies in speaking with one voice. When we are united, our call for compensation and recognition becomes stronger and more difficult to ignore,” Kassis said.
The renewed appeal comes amid growing concern that the population of surviving Mau Mau veterans continues to decline with age, raising fears that many may never live to see the compensation and recognition they have sought for decades.
While some Mau Mau veterans previously benefited from compensation awarded by the British government following legal action over abuses committed during the colonial era, many others continue to seek broader recognition and support from the Kenyan government for their role in the country’s liberation struggle.
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