The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has issued a detailed update on its investigations into police conduct during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests that swept across Kenya. The demonstrations, which began in June 2024, were marked by violent confrontations between protestors and security forces, prompting public outcry and calls for accountability.
In a statement released on April 28, 2025, IPOA revealed that it had registered 60 death cases linked to the protests. Out of these, 22 investigations have been completed, while 36 remain ongoing and two are currently before the courts.
Of the completed cases, eight are undergoing final internal review, four are at the report-writing stage, two have been closed internally, and four have been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). Additionally, three cases were closed following directives from the ODPP.
The Authority documented incidents from various parts of the country, including Nairobi, Eldoret, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kakamega, Meru, Mombasa, and Nyeri. In Nairobi, two high-profile cases—those of Rex Masai and Evans Kiratu—are already before the Milimani court.
IPOA also recorded 233 cases of injuries sustained during the protests. Of these, 191 are under active investigation, while 42 have been closed.
However, IPOA noted that some investigations have faced delays due to non-cooperation from certain police officers and witnesses. In response, the Authority is actively engaging police leadership to overcome these challenges and expedite justice.
IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to transparency and fairness. “We shall remain independent, impartial, and apolitical in all our investigations,” he stated.
The update follows heightened public scrutiny triggered by the recent BBC documentary Blood Parliament, which exposed alleged police excesses during the protests. The documentary reignited calls for justice and underscored the need for independent oversight of law enforcement.
IPOA assured the public that recommendations will be made to appropriate state agencies where culpability is established, and the public will be kept informed of any developments.
The Authority’s continued vigilance reflects the broader national demand for accountability and the protection of civil liberties.
