Written By Lisa Murimi
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has intensified its campaign against police brutality by filing a lawsuit with the High Court targeting several police officials involved in the violent crackdown on anti-government protesters in June 2024.
The suit, lodged earlier this week, highlights allegations of gross misconduct by police officers, focusing on Sergeant Martin Mbae Kithinji, who is accused of manhandling reporter and activist Hanifa Safia Adan.
On June 18, Kithinji, allegedly acting outside his official capacity and dressed in civilian clothing, detained Adan near the Kenya National Archives during a peaceful protest.
The LSK claims that Kithinji violated Adan’s constitutional rights by unlawfully arresting her.
The protests, which resulted in at least 61 deaths according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, were marred by accusations of excessive force.
Reports indicate that officers used live ammunition against largely peaceful demonstrators.
The LSK’s lawsuit extends to high-ranking officials including Nairobi regional police commander Adamson Bungei, Corporal Isiah Ndumba Murangiri, and Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Moses Shikuku.
They are accused of failing to prevent excessive force and allowing non-uniformed officers to participate in the violent suppression of protests.
In response, the High Court has mandated new directives to improve police accountability, including measures to ensure that plainclothes officers do not cover their faces and that uniformed officers display their nametags prominently.
This legal action reflects ongoing efforts to address police excesses and safeguard public trust in law enforcement.
