NAIROBI, Kenya – In light of the current security challenges facing the nation, the Ministry of Interior has issued a stern reminder about the non-negotiable nature of respecting the sanctity of human life, as enshrined in Article 26 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
This comes in response to the escalating violence and property destruction linked to infiltrated peaceful demonstrations.
“What began as an expression of divergent opinion over the financial vision for the country has tragically escalated,” the statement read. “We are sadly counting the number of lives lost, value of property destroyed, and families deprived of livelihoods.”
The Ministry highlighted the unfortunate shift from peaceful protests to violent acts, including rioting, looting, and the destruction of property.
The Ministry reiterated that the police are governed by the National Police Service Act, which prohibits the use of excessive force.
Section 49 of the Act permits security officers to use force only when necessary and to the extent required in the execution of their duties.
“Security agencies are under instruction to exercise restraint during peaceful protests and use non-lethal force to ensure public safety,” the Ministry stated.
However, in situations where protests escalate into criminal activities, reasonable force may be employed.
Additional security personnel have been deployed to hotspots and areas requiring heightened protection.
The Ministry affirmed the role of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) in investigating and recommending prosecution for police misconduct.
“IPOA is already conducting independent investigations into several allegations of alleged police misconduct, killings, and reported enforced disappearances,” the statement read.
The Ministry also recommended the establishment of the Coroner General’s Office, as per the National Coroners Service Act 2017, to investigate deaths, including those resulting from police actions. This office aims to ensure accountability and transparency in cases of suspicious deaths.
A National Multi-Agency Command has been established to coordinate security operations and address the insecurity posed by protest infiltrations.
“Criminals camouflaging as peace-loving citizens will be dealt with firmly in strict adherence to the law,” the Ministry warned, emphasizing ongoing efforts to pursue all those culpable for crimes.
Business and private property owners are urged to collaborate with local police for security management, and organizers of public gatherings are reminded to notify the police of their plans to ensure orderly conduct.
To improve public communication, police will issue advisories on deployment areas, official protest zones, and cordoned-off regions. Contact persons will be available for organizers to ensure peaceful gatherings.
