Amidst mounting political unrest in Kenya, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights has called for a thorough investigation into the deaths and injuries resulting from recent Maandamano protests. Jeremy Laurence, the spokesperson for the human rights office, emphasized the need for prompt, independent, and transparent investigations to hold those responsible for civilian casualties accountable.
The call for investigations comes on the heels of politically charged protests that have gripped Kenya, leaving citizens in fear. In response, the opposition has pledged to persist with the Maandamano protests unless the Kenyan government, led by the Kenya Kwanza administration, addresses the citizens’ demands.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, speaking on behalf of the opposition, asserted the legality of the protests, citing constitutional and international human rights law. Despite facing brutal police force, Sifuna announced the continuation of the Maandamano protests from July 17th to 19th, stressing that President William Ruto must heed the people’s voices.
The aftermath of the protests reveals a grim reality: several families in Mlolongo, Kitengela, and Emali are mourning the loss of loved ones, while over ten individuals are nursing gunshot wounds. Particularly distressing is the news that 50 pupils from New Kihumbuni primary school are recovering from respiratory infections caused by teargas during the protests, as confirmed by Dr. Aron Shikuku, the owner of Eagle Nursing Home hospital.
In response, Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Administration of National Government, Professor Kithuri Kindiki, condemned the Maandamano protests, warning of arrests for anyone participating. Kindiki emphasized an end to the “culture of impunity” and affirmed the government’s commitment to apprehend and prosecute those involved.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Onesimus Murkomen echoed Kindiki’s sentiments, cautioning against normalizing violence and vandalism under the pretext of exercising political rights. He emphasized the government’s intolerance for violent protests and supported Kindiki’s stance on maintaining law and order.
As the Kenyan government takes a stern stance against the ongoing protests, the international community watches closely to see whether the Kenya Kwanza administration will yield to the UN Human Rights Commission’s plea for accountability and justice in the wake of the unrest.