Kenya's vote in favor of renewing the mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), has triggered sharp debate at home.
In a session on Monday, July 7 the United States abstained, Kenya aligned with countries like South Africa and Chile to support the three-year extension of the expert's role.
The mandate allows continued documentation of human rights violations against LGBTQ+ persons globally a key tool in international accountability.
The Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya (GALCK+) welcomed the move, posting on X: "The Independent Expert will continue documenting violence and discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ people around the world." President Ruto's led administration of Kenya just voted yes while President Trump's US administration abstained in the LGBTQ rights UN votes for the next 3 years.And the church of God with the man of God say amen.Amen - Chifu Tamurai (@Chifu_tamurai) July 8, 2025 However, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, a vocal opponent of LGBTQ+ rights, condemned the vote, terming it a betrayal of national values. "We cannot support it in whatever form.
