NAIROBI, Kenya- The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has condemned what it described as the degrading treatment of a person with a disability during the June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests, saying the incident violated constitutional principles of dignity, equality and non-discrimination.
In a statement issued on Friday, the commission said the treatment of the individual during the public assemblies was unacceptable and had no place in a constitutional democracy.
“The degrading treatment of a person with disability during the 25 June public assemblies is unacceptable and has no place in a constitutional democracy,” the commission said.
NGEC stressed that respect for the dignity and equal rights of persons with disabilities must be upheld at all times, including during law enforcement operations.
“Respect for human dignity, equality, and non-discrimination is not optional—even during law enforcement operations,” the commission added.
The commission said the incident underscored the need to accelerate police reforms and strengthen disability-inclusive policing in Kenya.
“It is a stark reminder that police reforms and disability-inclusive policing remain unfinished,” the statement said.
The commission did not identify the individual involved or provide further details of the incident.
The June 25 demonstrations were held across several parts of Kenya to mark the second anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests.
While many commemorative events were peaceful, rights groups documented numerous arrests, roadblocks and confrontations between police and protesters.
Human rights organisations also accused security agencies of violating constitutional rights during the demonstrations, allegations the government has defended by saying security measures were necessary to protect lives and property and prevent criminal infiltration of the protests.
Article 54 of the Constitution guarantees the rights of persons with disabilities, while Article 27 provides for equality and freedom from discrimination.
The NGEC has consistently called for stronger implementation of disability rights and inclusive public services.