NAIROBI, Kenya- The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has launched independent investigations into the excessive use of force by police during recent demonstrations protesting a surge in abductions and enforced disappearances.
The commission condemned the crackdown, emphasizing that the protests were largely peaceful.
In a statement, KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede decried the “unwarranted violence and terror on demonstrators,” vowing to seek justice for those affected.
The commission announced plans to file a Habeas Corpus application to demand accountability for individuals who were arrested or went missing during the demonstrations.
“Pursuant to its powers, the commission will initiate the necessary interventions to pursue redress for the violations witnessed during the demonstrations,” Odede said.
The protests, which saw significant police presence in Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and Uasin Gishu, resulted in 24 arrests in Nairobi, 16 in Eldoret, and 13 in Mombasa. Eighteen individuals were injured, with some suffering from tear gas exposure and blunt force trauma.
High-profile figures such as Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and former presidential candidate Reuben Kigame were among those detained.
Omtatah was initially held at Nairobi’s Central Police Station before being transferred to Gigiri Police Station, while Kigame was briefly detained in Eldoret.
The KNCHR also flagged concerning practices by law enforcement, including the use of hooded officers and unmarked vehicles, which violates a Malindi High Court ruling prohibiting police from concealing their identities during protests.
“The Inspector General of Police, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution should initiate investigations and prosecute all officers found culpable of human rights violations,” Odede urged.
Adding to the tension, the High Court has directed the Inspector General of Police and the Director of Criminal Investigations to comply with an earlier order to produce the missing individuals.
