Siaya Woman Representative Christine Ombaka has called on the government to end abductions and killings, saying that preventing rights violations would reduce the amount of public money spent on compensation.

Speaking during an interview with a local television station on July 2, 2026, Ombaka said the government should focus on stopping actions that result in court awards to victims of rights violations.

“Even if the government is ready to compensate those who they have violated against, they should stop abducting and killing so that they don’t spend too much money compensating,” Ombaka said.

“You compensate as much as you kill. So it is important that you stop killing, stop abducting and killing, for you to stop compensating.”

She added: “If you want to save money, don’t do what is going to make you spend money.”

IPOA probes June 25 protest incidents

The remarks come amid public debate over police conduct during the June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into reports of abductions, physical assaults and use of force during the demonstrations.

According to IPOA, its monitoring teams documented both peaceful policing efforts and incidents that are now under investigation.

The authority said 355 people were arrested across the country during the protests, including 161 in Nairobi.

IPOA also said seven people were reported missing during the demonstrations, among them Mathare-based activist Davis Lichuma, who was later found outside Kenyatta National Hospital.

In a statement issued on July 1, 2026, IPOA said police mounted roadblocks, used tear gas and deployed acoustic devices in parts of Nairobi and Mombasa to manage the demonstrations.

The authority also raised concerns over officers wearing balaclavas, operating in plain clothes and using vehicles with concealed registration plates, saying the incidents form part of its ongoing investigations.

Calls for justice

Ombaka also defended the right of Kenyans to criticise the government, saying differing opinions should not be viewed as attempts to undermine the State.

“We have freedom of speech. When people talk against the government, it’s not that they want the government to collapse. Sometimes you criticize the government to correct it. Constructive criticism is not bad,” she said.

She also called for faster access to justice, saying lengthy court processes and legal costs discourage many victims from pursuing their cases.

“Justice in this country is expensive. You have to have lawyers. It takes a long time… It might cut off people.”

IPOA said investigators are recording statements from victims, including those injured during the protests and persons with disabilities affected in areas such as Nakuru. The authority added that psychosocial support has been provided to some of those affected as investigations continue in areas including Mathare, Huruma and Kariobangi North.

The oversight body has said investigations into the incidents are ongoing and that any officers found culpable will be held accountable in accordance with the law.