UN rights agency offers to assist in probe into use of lethal force by police during protests
It noted that lethal ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons were used
A United Nations agency has expressed its willingness to assist in investigations into the use of lethal force by the police during Monday’s Saba Saba protests in 17 counties and especially the capital Nairobi.
In a statement, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights noted that under international human rights law, intentional lethal force by law enforcement officers, including with firearms, should only be used when strictly necessary to protect life from an imminent threat.
“Our Office stands ready to support the authorities in Kenya in addressing these challenges, including in the investigations,” it said.
It added that it is deeply troubled by killings of at least 10 people, as well as looting and destruction of property in the country as police and other security forces responded to the violent protests during the 35th anniversary of the Saba Saba
It noted that lethal ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons were used.
“Police have reported that at least 11 people were killed, 52 police officers injured, and that 567 arrests were made. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported at least 10 fatalities, 29 injuries, 37 arrests and two abductions. We have also received reports of looting and damage to public and private property by unidentified individuals in multiple locations,” the UN agency said in a statement.
It said it is very concerning that these latest incidents come barely two weeks after 15 protesters were reportedly killed and many more injured in Nairobi and other parts of Kenya on 25 June.
“UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk renews his call for calm and restraint, and full respect for the freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly. It is essential that legitimate grievances at the root of these protests are addressed. We note that the police have announced an investigation into earlier incidents. The High Commissioner repeats his call for all reported killings and other alleged violations and abuses of international human rights law, including with respect to use of force, to be promptly, thoroughly, independently and transparently investigated. Those responsible must be held to account,” the agency said.
During the commemoration, the mass demonstrations that forced Kenya’s return to multi-party democracy after years of autocratic rule under former president Moi.
Police set up roadblocks and restricted access to central Nairobi, where previous rallies have taken place. Most businesses remained closed, and an online map showing at least 20 police roadblocks was widely shared on social media.
Despite the clampdown, small groups of mainly young protesters gathered on the outskirts of the city, clashing with anti-riot police.
