KNCHR slams police for violence on anti-abduction protesters, vows to take action

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has demanded the prosecution of police officers caught using excessive force and torture on protesters during demonstrations against abductions and enforced disappearances.

In a statement, KNCHR condemned the violent dispersal of demonstrators by police, terming the actions unnecessary and disproportionate.

The commission emphasised that Article 37 of Kenya’s Constitution guarantees the right to peacefully assemble, picket, and present petitions to public authorities, urging both protesters and security agencies to adhere to the law.

KNCHR observed that the demonstrations, which initially began peacefully in Nairobi and other counties, were disrupted by heavy-handed police interventions, including tear gas and arbitrary arrests.

“The commission condemns in the strongest terms possible the unwarranted violence and force meted out to demonstrators,” the commission said.

Scores injured

It noted that there were reports of 18 injured people, including five left unconscious and others sustaining injuries from tear gas canisters, blunt force, or minor cuts.

In Nairobi, 24 individuals were arrested, while Eldoret and Mombasa recorded 16 and 13 arrests, respectively.

Among those detained were Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, who was initially held at Nairobi’s Central Police Station before being transferred to Gigiri Police Station, and former presidential candidate Reuben Kigame, who was briefly held in Eldoret.

KNCHR noted with concern that detained protesters in Nairobi reported being tortured while in custody.

The commission disclosed that it would initiate legal action, including filing a habeas corpus application to demand accountability for those arrested and abducted.

KNCHR further called on the Inspector General of Police, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to investigate and prosecute officers found culpable of human rights violations.

Unmarked vehicles

The human rights organisation also criticised police for using unmarked vehicles and hooded officers in contravention of a High Court ruling.

Despite the disruptions, the commission commended protesters for conducting themselves peacefully amidst provocation. It noted that businesses in Nairobi remained closed, and public transport was restricted from accessing the central business district for most of the day.

KNCHR said it is committed to pursuing justice for victims of police brutality and urged the government to uphold its responsibility to facilitate peaceful protests and ensure law and order.