The government has expressed regret over the violent actions of police officers against unarmed protesters during an anti-femicide demonstration, calling the incident “unfortunate and unacceptable.” Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo assured the public that investigations are underway and those responsible for the brutality will face legal consequences.
The anti-femicide protest, held to raise awareness about the alarming rise in gender-based violence and femicide cases, was marred by scenes of police officers using excessive force on demonstrators. The incident occurred on a day meant to amplify the voices of women and activists calling for justice and systemic reforms to address femicide in Kenya.
“Unfortunate and Unacceptable”
Speaking during a media briefing, PS Omollo condemned the incident, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression.
“I think the events were pretty much unfortunate, and one happening on such an important day definitely shows the challenge we have around policing and looking at the people who were out there demonstrating,” said Omollo. He acknowledged the crucial role of such demonstrations in sensitizing the public about femicide and addressing systemic issues contributing to violence against women.
Omollo termed the violent police response as “something we highly regret” and assured Kenyans that those found culpable would face the law. “We have the internal processes within the structure of police, and what we expect is that anybody found culpable definitely has to be taken through the legal process and established protocols,” he added.
Investigation Underway
The Interior PS revealed that conversations with the Inspector General of Police had already taken place to address the regrettable actions of the officers involved. He likened the situation to a parent disciplining a child but going overboard due to unchecked enthusiasm.
“It is not something we would want to say is acceptable. We have had conversations with the Inspector General of Police, and it is regrettable and something that should not have happened in the first place,” Omollo stated.
He added that while police actions may have been intended to maintain order, they escalated beyond acceptable limits, resulting in harm to peaceful protesters.
Public Outrage and Criticism
The incident has sparked widespread criticism from activists, civil society organizations, and the general public. Many have accused the police of undermining the constitutional rights of citizens to demonstrate peacefully. Calls for accountability have grown louder, with demands for swift action against those responsible for the violence.
“This incident reflects a deep-rooted issue within the police force when it comes to handling protests. The government must act decisively to rebuild public trust and ensure such acts do not recur,” said a representative from a leading human rights group.
Context of the Demonstration
The protest came amidst rising cases of femicide in Kenya, which have drawn concern from both local and international organizations. Activists argue that insufficient legal and institutional measures to protect women have perpetuated a culture of impunity around gender-based violence.
For many participants, the protest was not only a call for justice for femicide victims but also an urgent plea for the government to implement stronger policies to protect women and girls. The violent police response, however, overshadowed the event’s objectives and diverted attention from the pressing issue of femicide.
Looking Ahead
PS Omollo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing femicide and improving police conduct. He emphasized the importance of internal reforms within the police force to ensure professionalism and accountability in handling public protests.
As investigations continue, the public remains watchful, demanding transparency and justice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges Kenya faces in balancing law enforcement with the protection of human rights.
The outcome of this incident will not only set a precedent for how police misconduct is handled but also determine the government’s commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights of its citizens. For the families of femicide victims and the demonstrators who sought justice, this accountability is crucial in restoring faith in the system.
