Why Kenyans are rejecting planned Dutch royals visit

His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Máxima.[Photo, courtesy] 

A section of Kenyans have voiced mixed reactions to the planned state visit by Dutch royals King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, in March. 

The Netherlands Information Service announced the visit last week, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, highlighting Kenya's growing influence on the global stage.  

“The Netherlands seeks to forge new partnerships and deepen existing ties. Kenya plays an increasingly influential role on the global stage,” read part of the statement.  

But, the visit has now drawn sharp criticism from netizens, with concerns about insecurity and governance dominating online discussions.  

Charles, a social media user, urged the royal family to reconsider their trip, citing unresolved cases of abductions.  

“With all due respect to King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, kindly reconsider this state visit in light of Kenya’s current political situation. Government critics have been abducted, and the Kenyan government has been unable or unwilling to investigate and provide full details,” he wrote.  

Another user, Mwenyeji, echoed similar sentiments: “We, the citizens of this nation, kindly request the Netherlands and its citizens to think deeply before allowing a state visit to this country. Think wisely; there is trouble.”  

The state of insecurity emerged as a recurring concern, with some jokingly suggesting, “The country is closed for renovations.”  

Another X user called for ethical diplomacy, stating, “The Netherlands must prioritise ethical diplomacy. A state visit to Kenya should not be on the table until Kenya addresses its own pressing internal issues.”  

Others criticised the visit as a gesture that could legitimize alleged malpractices by the Kenyan government.  

“It would be prudent to review this visit. It legitimizes a government accused of aiding gross human rights violations, corruption, organised crime, constitutional desecration, and denial of justice. This goes against everything the Netherlands stands for,” one user commented.  

The hashtag #CancelStateVisit trended on social media for the better part of the weekend, with overwhelming calls for the Dutch royal family to reconsider their plans. 

Many social media users have written emails, urging the royals to reconsider the visit. 

The Dutch and Kenyan governments have yet to respond to the concerns raised.

The royals are set to visit the country for three days, between March 18 to March 20.