Raila Odinga Condemns Police for Heavy-Handed Tactics Against Protesters and Journalists

In the wake of the recent Nane Nane (August 8th) protests, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has strongly condemned the actions of the police, decrying what he termed as “heavy-handed tactics” used against peaceful demonstrators and journalists. The protests, which were intended to be a peaceful expression of public dissent, were marred by incidents of police brutality, arbitrary arrests, and the harassment of members of the press, drawing sharp criticism from the veteran politician.

In a statement released to newsrooms, Raila expressed deep concern over the police’s response to the demonstrations, highlighting that their actions were a direct violation of the rights enshrined in Kenya’s Constitution. “I have been made aware of the events that transpired during the peaceful Nane Nane protests. It is with deep concern that I learned of the arbitrary arrests, detentions, and excessive use of force by the police, which led to the harassment of peaceful protesters and journalists, including a member of the international press, Larry Madowo of CNN,” Raila stated.

Raila reiterated that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to peaceably picket, demonstrate, and protest. He emphasized that these rights are fundamental to the country’s democracy and should be upheld and respected by all, especially the authorities tasked with protecting them. “The right to peaceful assembly, the freedom of expression, and the protection of journalists are fundamental pillars of our democracy, pillars that we have fought long and hard to establish and must continue to protect,” he said.

The former Prime Minister’s statement comes at a time of heightened tension in the country, as citizens increasingly express frustration over various social, economic, and political issues. The protests on August 8th were part of a broader movement calling for accountability and justice, and the police’s response has sparked a national debate on the balance between maintaining public order and respecting civil liberties.

Raila’s condemnation of the police’s actions underscores the broader concern about the erosion of democratic principles in Kenya. The use of excessive force, he argued, not only undermines the rights of citizens but also jeopardizes the country’s democratic progress. “The actions of the police on Thursday are unacceptable as they amount to a direct violation of the rights enshrined in the Constitution,” Raila asserted.

The ODM leader called for the immediate release of those who were unjustly detained during the protests and demanded that the conduct of officers involved in brutalizing innocent Kenyans be thoroughly investigated. He insisted that those found guilty of violating the rights of citizens should be held accountable. “Let us remain united in our resolve to create a Kenya that respects the rule of law, upholds the rights of its citizens, and values the role of a free and fair press,” he urged.

Raila’s strong stance highlights the ongoing struggle for the protection of civil liberties in Kenya. His call for unity and respect for the rule of law serves as a reminder of the country’s journey toward democracy and the need to safeguard the gains made over the years. As the situation unfolds, the demand for justice, freedom, and the full realization of constitutional rights remains at the forefront of the national discourse.

In a nation where the press and peaceful protests are pivotal to holding power accountable, Raila’s message resonates with many who believe that the fight for these freedoms is far from over. His condemnation of the police’s actions is not just a call for accountability but a rallying cry for all Kenyans to stand firm in defense of their constitutional rights.