Kathmandu— A coalition of Kenyan survivors, families, workers, and residents marched in Nairobi on Wednesday demanding that their national assembly halt the renewal of a defense agreement with the United Kingdom until outstanding cases of alleged abuse involving British soldiers are resolved. The group submitted a petition calling for accountability for crimes committed by personnel from the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK), legal aid for victims, and enforcement of child-support obligations. They argue that renewing the pact without addressing these issues would be a disservice to those who have suffered harm as a result of BATUK’s presence in the country.

Parliamentary Inquiry Findings

A November 2025 parliamentary inquiry documented allegations including rape, sexual assault, deaths, injuries from unexploded ordnance, environmental destruction, and mistreatment of Kenyan employees by British Army personnel. Petitioners are urging lawmakers to implement the inquiry’s recommendations before approving the defense agreement renewal. The petition highlights concerns over a pattern of alleged abuses linked to BATUK's operations in Kenya.

Paternity Claims and Abandoned Children

The group also raised the issue of British soldiers fathering children and subsequently abandoning them without financial support. A King’s College London investigation reported nearly 100 documented paternity cases involving British fathers, with UK court rulings secured in 12 instances. Petitioners claim that ‘hundreds’ of children have been left unsupported by British soldiers stationed at BATUK.

Past Incidents and Compensation

Activists cited the 2012 death of Agnes Wanjiru, whose body was found in a septic tank after allegedly spending time with British soldiers. Booker Omole, an activist, stated that witnesses to the event will not forget it, regardless of legal findings. BATUK has also faced blame for a 2021 wildfire at the Lolldaiga Conservancy, which destroyed over 12,000 acres; London later agreed to pay £2.9 million ($3.9 million) in compensation.

Recent Training Disruptions

Recently, a planned army exercise was temporarily moved outside of Kenya due to licensing issues, but training resumed after Nairobi granted the necessary permissions. The British Ministry of Defense has stated it “deeply regrets” problems linked to BATUK’s presence and is prepared to investigate new allegations if evidence is provided.

The petition is currently before the Kenyan National Assembly, which will consider its recommendations as they deliberate on whether to renew the defense agreement with the United Kingdom.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.