Written By Lisa Murimi
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) on Tuesday urged President William Ruto to uphold the rule of law and halt alleged police brutalities against peaceful protesters.
In a statement, the Commission called on the President to issue a directive to restrain deployed officers from harming demonstrators, honoring his commitment to human rights.
The KNCHR also pressed Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to promptly investigate the deaths of about 50 Kenyans during recent anti-government demonstrations.
The Commission urged Kanja to collaborate with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
The human rights body reported recording 50 deaths, 403 injuries, and 59 abductions during the nationwide protests.
It demanded the immediate and unconditional release of individuals illegally detained during these events.
“Those found culpable, whether civilian or security agent, should be charged. The Commission will also pursue command responsibility for all documented instances of police brutality and excesses,” the statement read.
The KNCHR has already filed a petition in court seeking accountability for missing and abducted persons.
Additionally, it called for thorough forensic investigations into the deaths of individuals whose bodies were retrieved from a dumpsite in Nairobi’s Kware area, in accordance with the Minnesota Protocol, which promotes effective investigation of unlawful deaths and disappearances.
The Commission urged relatives of missing persons to present themselves for DNA tests to help identify the deceased and provide insights into their deaths.
