Ruto orders protest suspects released
By Zadock.Aangira, July 25, 2024
Suspects who were arrested during the recent protests but not implicated in crimes should be released and the charges against them withdrawn, President William Ruto said.
In what is largely viewed as an assurance to the Gen Zs who are behind the recent protests, the president also urged the police to act responsibly, professionally and effectively and in full compliance with the Constitution.
He further directed that all cases of misconduct by the police should be properly and expeditiously investigated.
“All breaches and violations by police officers must be handled expeditiously through due process, with a view to giving Kenyans a police service that upholds the highest standards of integrity,” he said.
Regarding the innocent Kenyans whose livelihoods and properties have been destroyed, the president said the government will take measures to support them on their path of recovery.
“I direct relevant ministries to obtain, verify and provide accurate data to facilitate appropriate government action within 30 days,” he directed.
The president regretted that there have been many instances of excessive, unlawful, dangerous and harmful conduct during the demonstrations and engagements as a consequence of which many persons have been arrested and charged in court with various offences.
As a result, he urged the criminal justice agencies to take effective measures and ensure that people who may have been innocently caught up on the wrong side of proceedings, and those not implicated in crimes are released and the charges against them withdrawn.