Lobbyists condemn police brutality on protesters
By Oliver Musembi, July 14, 2023Gender and human rights groups have condemned the violence, police killings and destruction of property witnessed during Wednesday’s public protests in parts of the country.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) in separate statements called for thorough investigations into reported incidents of brutality unleashed on school children and members of the public by police and action taken on the culprits.
“Just like other like-minded Kenyans, the Commission is abhorred and deeply concerned by the irresponsible and unprovoked lobbing of gas canisters by police officers; with serious health ramifications, meted upon 53 innocent pupils of Kihumbu-ini Primary School in Kangemi,” reads a statement by KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede.
The Commission, she added, calls upon the authorities to swiftly investigate the acts of criminality and bring the perpetrators to justice, while at the same time observing that the demonstrations were organised within the framework of Article 37 of the Constitution and the right to peaceful assembly and intended to voice the concerns of the various protesting groups.
“The use of excessive force, especially in a school setting, undermines the trust between the community and law enforcement officers. It is imperative that a thorough investigation is conducted to hold the responsible police officers accountable for their actions,
Similarly, NGEC Chairperson Dr Joyce Mutinda urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to commence an inquiry into the Kihumbu-ini school incident and “ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their misconduct.”
“The safety and well-being of our children must never be compromised under any circumstances, and justice must prevail for the affected pupils, their teachers and families,” stated Dr Mutinda.
At least nine people were reportedly killed by police and scores injured during the countrywide protests organized by three different groups including Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya political coalition against the high cost of living, taxi cab operators to protest the low payments by their respective digital applications companies, Passenger Service Vehicles (PSVs) operators to protest against the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) move to re-test drivers before renewal of their driving licenses.