The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned the excessive force used by police against Trevor Mureithi, a Multimedia University student, during a student strike.
A viral video shows Mureithi being assaulted by armed officers and dragged despite showing signs of injury. He narrowly avoided serious harm when a delayed teargas canister exploded nearby.
KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede criticized the police for their brutality and lack of humanity, which led to Mureithi’s hospitalization.
She emphasized that such impunity must end and called for the Inspector General of Police to investigate and hold the officers accountable.
Odede also urged the National Police Service to cover Mureithi’s medical expenses and invest in officers’ mental wellness.
“It is abhorring to watch such scenes, having witnessed a similar attack at Parliament buildings where a protester was killed after a canister released by security agents exploded on his body,” noted Ms. Odede.
The Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) has started an investigation into the incident, promising to recommend action against the officers if they are found culpable. IPOA’s CEO Elema Halake stressed the importance of professional and responsible conduct by the police.