NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned the disruption of a peaceful civil society meeting at All Saints Cathedral, describing the incident as a violation of constitutional rights and a threat to democratic governance.
In a statement issued on June 15, KNCHR said the attack on the gathering, which had been convened to discuss matters of public interest, including the national budget, undermined fundamental freedoms protected under the Constitution.
The commission cited Articles 32, 33, 36, and 37 of the Constitution, which guarantee freedom of conscience, expression, association, and peaceful assembly.
“Such actions violate constitutional rights and undermine democratic governance,” the commission said.
KNCHR emphasized that both state and non-state actors have a duty to respect and protect these rights, warning that attacks on civic gatherings erode democratic participation and public trust in institutions.
The commission commended the National Police Service for its initial response and welcomed ongoing investigations into the incident. However, it stressed that accountability must extend beyond those directly involved in the disruption.
“Those responsible for planning, financing, organizing, or carrying out the attack must be identified and held accountable,” the statement said.
The commission also expressed concern over reports that young people may have been mobilized to participate in the disruption.
According to KNCHR, the exploitation of youth for intimidation, violence, or political ends undermines their rights, dignity, and meaningful participation in democratic processes.
The rights body urged young Kenyans to reject involvement in unlawful activities and instead engage positively in civic affairs, accountability initiatives, and democratic discourse.
“Civil society actors, human rights defenders, faith-based institutions, and all Kenyans have a constitutional right to assemble and engage in civic discourse without fear of intimidation, harassment, or violence,” KNCHR stated.
The statement comes amid mounting scrutiny over the events at All Saints Cathedral, where suspected hired goons stormed a post-budget forum attended by religious leaders, civil society representatives, lawyers, and members of the public.
Claims have emerged that political actors may have financed the operation, although police investigations remain ongoing and no official findings have been released.
KNCHR said it would closely monitor the investigations and expects authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial, and transparent process to ensure justice is served and impunity prevented.
The commission further reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civic space and safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all persons in Kenya.
KNCHR urged members of the public to continue reporting human rights violations through its established reporting channels as efforts to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack continue.
