The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning widespread police brutality and the deployment of hired goons during protests held on Tuesday, June 17, across Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale Counties.
The demonstrations were sparked by public outrage over the death of Albert Ojwang, who died under suspicious circumstances while in police custody.
In its statement, KNCHR revealed that 22 people were injured during the protests, including one protester who was shot at close range by police in Nairobi’s Central Business District. The victim is currently in critical condition at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Other injuries included gunshot wounds, head lacerations, blunt trauma, whip marks, and asthma attacks triggered by tear gas exposure.The Commission criticized police for using excessive force and for detaining several peaceful demonstrators, including four human rights defenders in Mombasa.
According to the KNCHR, the protestors had followed lawful procedures, including notifying authorities of their planned assemblies.“We call for the immediate and unconditional release of those unlawfully arrested,” said Dr. Raymond Nyeris, Vice Chairperson of KNCHR, in the statement.
A disturbing feature of the Nairobi protests was the presence of masked, armed goons on motorbikes, reportedly hired to disrupt the demonstrations.
KNCHR reported that these individuals assaulted protestors and innocent civilians using tyre whips, wooden clubs, and other crude weapons, while also engaging in theft and vandalism.
Many businesses in the CBD were forced to shut down amid the chaos. “This is unacceptable conduct by the police, who are required to provide security for all persons in Kenya without favour or bias,” KNCHR stated, warning that such actions threaten to plunge the country into anarchy.
The Commission also raised alarm over the conduct of many officers who concealed their identities by masking their faces and hiding vehicle registration plates, flouting a High Court ruling requiring police deployed during protests to remain identifiable at all times.“When those charged with maintaining law and order break the law with such impunity, they encourage citizens to disobey the law,” the statement read.
KNCHR pledged to continue monitoring the situation and called on members of the public to report any human rights violations via its toll-free number 0800 720627 or SMS 22359.
The Commission commended the majority of protestors for remaining peaceful despite provocation, urging authorities to uphold constitutional rights and ensure accountability for those who violate them. “Haki kwa wote, kila wakati Justice for all, at all times,” the statement read.
