President Ruto Orders Immediate Release of Wrongfully Arrested Protesters

President William Ruto has mandated the immediate release of all wrongfully arrested protesters. The announcement, made during a state address at State House on Wednesday, underscores the President’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that innocent individuals are not unjustly detained.

Ruto emphasized the importance of the criminal justice system in maintaining legal integrity, stating, “I urge the criminal justice agencies to take effective measures and ensure that people who may have innocently caught up on the wrong side of things and those not implicated in crime be released and charges against them withdrawn.” This directive is aimed at reallocating resources and attention towards serious criminal cases, particularly those involving individuals responsible for violence and chaos during the protests.

The President’s address also included a strong condemnation of police brutality. Ruto called for an immediate investigation into the actions of police officers who used excessive force, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. “I call on the NPS to use its mandate responsibly, professionally, and effectively in compliance with the constitution with a view to promoting national objectives of Article 238, 239, and 244 of our constitution,” Ruto asserted. He stressed that all violations by police officers must be addressed swiftly and through due process, to ensure the police service adheres to the highest standards of integrity.

Ruto’s response comes in the wake of alarming reports from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), which documented significant casualties and human rights abuses since the anti-finance bill protests began on June 18, 2024. According to KNCHR, 50 people have lost their lives, 682 have been arbitrarily arrested, and 59 individuals were reportedly abducted by police and remain missing. These figures highlight the urgent need for reform and accountability within the law enforcement agencies.

The President’s directive also reflects his broader agenda of promoting integrity in governance and combating corruption. He announced plans to propose amendments to the evidence and witness protection acts, aiming to expedite the investigation and prosecution of corruption cases. “I will be proposing amendments to the evidence act and the criminal procedure code among other necessary legislative amendments to all statutes relating to corruption to expedite investigations and prosecution of corruption cases and provide for their conclusion within 6 months,” Ruto stated. This initiative seeks to strengthen the legal framework and ensure swift justice in corruption-related cases.

In the capital, Nairobi, the repercussions of the protests have been particularly severe. Over 100 people arrested during the July 16 demonstrations were charged and subsequently released after spending a night in police custody. Lawyer James wa Njeri reported that 109 individuals were released on a Ksh.500 cash bail, all charged with being ‘drunk and disorderly.’ This mass arrest and subsequent release underscore the chaotic nature of the recent protests and the urgent need for judicial review and fairness.

President Ruto’s orders represent a significant step towards restoring peace and legal order in Kenya. By addressing wrongful arrests, condemning police brutality, and committing to legislative reforms, Ruto aims to foster a more just and accountable governance system. As the nation navigates these turbulent times, the President’s actions will be crucial in shaping Kenya’s path towards stability and justice.