NAIROBI, Kenya – The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has pledged legal action to secure the release of at least 61 individuals arrested during Wednesday’s nationwide protests commemorating the first anniversary of the deadly 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
In a statement released Thursday, the LSK condemned the use of excessive force by police during the largely peaceful protests that took place in 23 counties, describing the crackdown as a gross violation of constitutional rights.
“We extend heartfelt condolences to the families of the eight individuals who lost their lives and offer unwavering support to all who suffered injuries,” said LSK President Faith Odhiambo.
The protests, largely youth-led, drew thousands of demonstrators to the streets to demand justice, accountability, and protection of human rights.
But while many Kenyans demonstrated peacefully, LSK said the day was “marred by police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and unlawful arrests.”
According to reports received by the society, over 400 people were injured, including 83 critically wounded, with eight suffering gunshot wounds.
The LSK also said it is investigating allegations of sexual violence committed during the protests.
“Throughout yesterday, hundreds of peaceful protesters bore the brunt of police brutality, excessive use of force, and extrajudicial killings,” Odhiambo said.
The LSK said it is actively following up on reports of those in custody, with a view to offering legal aid and securing their immediate release.
Condemnation of Lawlessness and State Overreach
While criticizing police violence, the LSK also condemned incidents of public disorder and attacks on police officers and public infrastructure during the protests.
The society cited the case of a female police officer who was stoned in Nairobi’s Central Business District and denounced the burning of the Kikuyu and Ol Kalou Law Courts, as well as the vandalism of Dagoretti Law Courts.
“Courts remain the last line of defence for Kenyans. Destroying them is self-sabotage and a direct attack on access to justice,” the statement read.
The LSK also took issue with the reported deployment of armed goons against protesters in Nairobi and Eldoret, saying such criminal infiltration undermined the legitimacy of peaceful demonstrations.
Media Blackout Slammed as Illegal
The statement further condemned the Communications Authority of Kenya for issuing what LSK termed an “arbitrary and legally impotent” directive that led to the shutting down of TV broadcast signals during the protests.
“This constitutes a gross violation of the right to access information and press freedom—both of which the Authority is legally mandated to protect,” LSK said.
The society urged security agencies and government institutions to respect the Constitution and exercise restraint.
“We dissuade our security organs and state agencies from violating the statutory and constitutional limits within which they are bound to function,” Odhiambo said.
As part of its broader mandate, the LSK said it remains committed to collecting complaints of human rights violations, offering legal assistance to victims, and advocating for sustainable national dialogue rooted in justice and constitutionalism.
