Government says more police officers than civilians were injured during youth protests
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura addressing journalists at Kenyatta International Convention Centre on July 18, 2024.
What you need to know:
- Last month, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) indicated that there were 60 fatalities and not 42 as the government claims.
- KNCHR’s vice chairperson, MsMarion Mutugi, in a submission to the Administration and Internal Affairs Committee of the National Assembly committee, revealed that all the death and torture cases it investigated emanating from the Gen Z protests, had the “hallmarks of the security enforcers”.
The number of police officers injured during the youth-led demonstrations in Kenya was more than that of civilians, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura has claimed.
While responding to concerns about the conduct of President William Ruto’s government that were raised by Catholic bishops on Thursday, Dr Mwaura said on Friday that the government is “deeply concerned” about the safety and human rights of all Kenyans.
“The National Police Service has reported that during the June and July 2024 protests, 495 police officers and 347 civilians were injured, with another 42 Kenyans unfortunately losing their lives,” he said.
His figure means that there were 148 more officers than civilians injured during the protests that climaxed with the country’s first-ever invasion of Parliament on June 25.
Dr Mwaura says the government acknowledges the tragic circumstances and confirms that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations continues to investigate any disappearances even as the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, remains focused on identifying and addressing any excesses on the side of the police.
“The government is committed to ensuring justice and will take necessary actions to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms,” said Dr Mwaura.
Last month, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) indicated that there were 60 fatalities and not 42 as the government claims.
KNCHR’s vice chairperson, MsMarion Mutugi, in a submission to the Administration and Internal Affairs Committee of the National Assembly committee, revealed that all the death and torture cases it investigated emanating from the Gen Z protests, had the “hallmarks of the security enforcers”.
KNCHR noted that 1,376 cases of arrests were documented across the 47 counties during the demonstrations.
Police say that 1,552 protesters were arrested and others captured on surveillance cameras committing offences are still being pursued by the authorities.
Dr Mwaura said that the government has taken note of concerns raised by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops regarding various pressing issues affecting our nation.
“We welcome the bishops’ engagement and value their advocacy for the well-being of Kenyans. We wish to respectfully respond to each point raised, affirming our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of all citizens,” he said.
