NAIROBI, Kenya — The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have issued a strong condemnation of the violent actions by Kenyan police during the recent anti-finance bill protests, which resulted in the deaths of five individuals and injuries to more than 30 others.
The protests, which took place outside Kenya’s parliament buildings, escalated when police fired live rounds into the crowd.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the EFF criticized President William Ruto’s administration for its harsh response to the protesters.
The use of live ammunition on unarmed citizens was described as “utterly unacceptable” and a “blatant violation of human rights.”
“The use of live rounds is unacceptable, and it is well known that police have never been able to deescalate anything,” the statement read. “If anything, their presence always escalates things, and clearly, President Ruto is willing to kill just to put his bill through.”
The EFF highlighted that the role of the military should be to protect the nation, not to confront unarmed protesters with legitimate grievances. The deployment of the military against civilians was condemned as unethical.
The EFF has called upon President Ruto to immediately cease the violent suppression of protesters, withdraw the military and police from the streets, and engage in meaningful dialogue with the citizens of Kenya.
The statement emphasized that the voices of the people must be heard and respected, not silenced through bloodshed and intimidation.
“It is imperative that those responsible for these heinous acts are held accountable and that all detained protesters are released without delay,” the statement continued.
The EFF expressed solidarity with the people of Kenya in their struggle against oppressive governance and economic exploitation.
The organization pledged to continue advocating for justice, peace, and the fundamental rights of all African people.
“The EFF stands in solidarity with the people of Kenya in their struggle against oppressive governance and economic exploitation,” the statement concluded.
“We will continue to advocate for justice, peace, and the fundamental rights of all African people.”
