Crisis in Kenya as Protests Escalate

Nairobi, June 25, 2024 — Kenya is currently experiencing a severe crisis as nationwide protests against recent tax hikes have escalated into violent clashes between demonstrators and police forces. The situation has resulted in significant human rights concerns, with multiple fatalities and numerous injuries reported.

Violent Clashes and Excessive Force

The protests, which began as peaceful demonstrations, have been met with excessive force by the police. Reports from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International Kenya detail that at least six protesters have been killed due to the use of live ammunition by police officers. One such victim, Elijah Okumu, was shot while closing his shop in Nairobi’s Dandora neighborhood​ (Human Rights Watch)​.

Tear gas has been deployed extensively, including in residential areas, leading to severe health issues and the tragic deaths of infants. In Kibera, Nairobi, tear gas exposure resulted in the death of a four-month-old baby, Precious, whose mother described the harrowing experience of trying to protect her children from the gas that filled their home​ (Human Rights Watch)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

Targeting of Journalists

Journalists covering the protests have faced harassment and physical attacks from the police. Multiple accounts describe how officers attempted to prevent live streaming of the protests by using water cannons to destroy cameras and forcing journalists to delete footage. These actions have severely hampered the media’s ability to report on the events and have raised significant concerns about press freedom in Kenya​ (Human Rights Watch)​.

Lack of Accountability

Despite numerous reports to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, there has been a notable lack of investigation into the incidents of police brutality. This failure is attributed to political interference and a lack of cooperation from police authorities, further undermining efforts to hold perpetrators accountable​ (Human Rights Watch)​.

Human Rights Violations

The current situation in Kenya highlights severe breaches of international human rights standards, including the right to life, the right to peaceful assembly, and freedom of expression. The use of lethal force by police is only permissible when strictly necessary to protect life, a standard that has clearly been violated in these incidents.

Government Response and Recommendations

In response to the crisis, human rights organizations are calling for:

An immediate halt to the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters.
Independent investigations into all reported incidents of police brutality.
Enhanced protections for journalists covering the protests.

Constructive dialogue between the government and protest leaders to address the root causes of the unrest.
The international community is urged to hold the Kenyan government accountable for these human rights violations and to support efforts for comprehensive police reforms.