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Senators have called on the National Police Service (NPS) to acknowledge and apologize for all deaths resulting from incidents witnessed in the country over the past few weeks.

During their session at the Senate on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, the Senators also demanded compensation for all victims of police brutality related to peaceful protests between 2023 and 2024.

The senators called on the government to expedite the process and compensate all the victims. Senators argued that the steps were essential in restoring trust between the public and law enforcement.

Further, during Wednesday, July 24, 2024 deliberations, the senators also called on NPS to extend amnesty to all peaceful protesters unlawfully detained during these demonstrations, urging the Director of Public Prosecutions to withdraw all cases in court involving peaceful protestors against the Finance Bill.

“To ensure accountability, the Senate called upon the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate and recommend appropriate action against police officers found culpable of using excessive force against peaceful protestors.

“Additionally, the House resolved that Parliament should implement guidelines to actualise Article 37 of the Constitution, ensuring citizens enjoy the right to picket without resulting in loss of life or property,” the statement from Parliament read in part.

Addressing the nation on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, President William Ruto promised to support the families of those who lost their lives during protests.

Moreover, Ruto vowed to help Kenyans whose property were destroyed during the demos.

Review of debt

Besides ordering the compensation of victims of police brutality, the Senators also called for the review of the national debt.

The Standing Committee on Finance and Budget was tasked with auditing the national debt in consultation with the Parliamentary Budget Office and presenting the actual status to Parliament.

The committee was also asked to engage the National Treasury to submit a roadmap on its strategy to reduce public debt to not more than 55 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in present value terms, as per Section 50(2)(c) of the Public Finance Management Act.

Security reforms

On security sector reforms, the Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Affairs was tasked with engaging with the National Police Service on matters of security and standard operating procedures for handling demonstrations. It was also tasked with ensuring compensation for all persons whose property was damaged or lost due to the demonstrations and fast-tracking insurance  compensation to police officers who lost their lives or suffered injuries as a result of the protests.

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