A UN expert has urged Kenyan and Pakistani authorities to expedite the investigation into the killing of journalist Arshad Sharif, following a ruling from a Kenyan court that declared his death unlawful. The Special Rapporteur has expressed concerns over the lack of arrests and prosecutions linked to the case two years post-incident and has emphasized the need for political will from both governments to ensure justice is served.
KARACHI: A United Nations expert has urged both Kenyan and Pakistani authorities to enhance their investigations into the assassination of journalist Arshad Sharif, emphasizing the imperative to ensure accountability in line with a significant ruling by a Kenyan court. Irene Khan, the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression, articulated that it has been nearly two years since Mr. Sharif’s passing and several months since the Kenyan High Court categorized his killing as “unlawful,” “arbitrary,” and “disproportionate”. Notably, as highlighted by Ms. Khan, no police personnel connected to the incident have been apprehended, nor have any legal actions been initiated against them in Kenya. She expressed her concerns regarding the lack of progress from both the Kenyan and Pakistani governments in fully elucidating the circumstances of this case. In a relevant judicial decision delivered on July 8, the Kenyan High Court in Kajiado ruled against the use of lethal force in Mr. Sharif’s death, mandated financial compensation of 10 million shillings to his family, and underscored the need for accountability. Ms. Khan asserted that while the court’s judgment represents a significant achievement, its true impact hinges on the pursuit of justice against the individuals responsible for Mr. Sharif’s death. She reiterated the necessity for comprehensive investigations into the events surrounding the murder, particularly considering the possibility of a transnational element to this crime. She urged both governments to demonstrate the political resolve required to ensure thorough accountability, noting that this case could set a vital precedent in combatting the impunity often experienced in cases involving the killing of journalists.
The killing of journalist Arshad Sharif has raised critical concerns about the safety of media personnel and the integrity of investigations into such incidents. Following his assassination in Kenya in 2022, a landmark ruling by the Kenyan High Court declared his killing unlawful, signifying a pivotal moment in the pursuit of justice for journalists. However, the delay in holding accountable those responsible poses questions regarding the effectiveness of law enforcement and judicial responses in cases of violence against journalists. The call for enhanced cooperation between Kenyan and Pakistani authorities underscores the need for an international approach to justice in such matters, especially considering the cross-border implications often inherent in transnational crimes.
In conclusion, the UN’s call for expedited investigations into the killing of Arshad Sharif highlights the urgent need for accountability in cases of violence against journalists. This incident not only underscores the perilous conditions faced by media professionals but also reflects broader systemic issues related to impunity and the need for international cooperation in ensuring justice. The Kenyan High Court’s ruling presents an essential step toward accountability; however, concrete actions from both governments are critical to translating this judgment into meaningful consequences for the perpetrators.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
