Rights groups demand arrests of killers of protesters at Parliament following BBC exposé
The renewed demands follow the release of a BBC documentary, which identifies individuals allegedly involved in the deaths of three unarmed protesters during the anti-finance bill protests that rocked the capital.
Human rights organisations are calling for the immediate apprehension of those linked to the fatal shootings of protesters outside Parliament during the Gen Z-led Occupy Parliament demonstrations on June 25, 2024.
The renewed demands follow the release of a BBC documentary, which identifies individuals allegedly involved in the deaths of three unarmed protesters during the anti-finance bill protests that rocked the capital.
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Addressing journalists on Monday, human rights activists led by Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI) Rapid Response Officer Francis Auma called for urgent action and accountability.
“Our youth were killed in broad daylight, and the world has now seen it. The documentary has been broadcast globally, yet the government remains silent. We demand justice for the victims’ families. Those responsible must be arrested and prosecuted,” Auma said.
Walid Sketty, another human rights defender, expressed gratitude to the international press for shedding light on the matter. (Farhiya Hussein)
He further accused the state of complicity, placing direct blame on President William Ruto for authorising the deployment of armed security forces during the demonstrations.
“The same administration eager to dispatch peacekeepers to Haiti is unleashing violence on its citizens. It is a betrayal that those entrusted with our protection have turned into our executioners,” Auma added.
The activists pledged to explore all lawful avenues to secure justice for the bereaved families.
Walid Sketty, another human rights defender, expressed gratitude to the international press for shedding light on the matter.
“Were it not for the global media, the truth of that day might have been buried. The documentary confirms what many of us already knew but were struggling to prove,” Sketty said.
The groups also urged the government to bolster the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) by granting it powers of arrest, saying its effectiveness is currently limited.
“Enough is enough. We have pleaded for years while people are killed for exercising their rights. IPOA’s independence must be more than just a name; it needs enforcement powers,” said Sketty.
HAKI Africa's youth projects coordinator Ali Fujo. (Farhiya Hussein)
He noted that footage from the BBC documentary showed involvement by both military personnel and a police officer from Nairobi’s Central Police Station.
“It is impossible to expect an unarmed oversight officer to apprehend a well-armed suspect. IPOA must be empowered if we are serious about justice,” he asserted.
The activists also insisted on holding all those who held leadership positions during the protests accountable, including former Interior Cabinet Secretary and current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
“In law, we speak of vicarious liability, you cannot punish the foot soldiers and spare those who issued the orders. Everyone involved must be brought to account,” said Sketty.
Echoing these sentiments, Haki Africa’s Ali Fujo encouraged young people not to relent in the fight for justice.
“Gen Z must rise. ‘Blood Parliament’ laid bare the failure of leadership in this country. We must defend our rights, even if it means returning to the streets,” Fujo said.
He further called on Kenyans to exercise their democratic power wisely, urging voters to reject leaders who perpetuate impunity and undermine the rule of law.
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