At least eight people were shot dead and over 400 injured during nationwide youth-led protests on Wednesday, 25 June, to make the first anniversary of Gen-Z demonstrations against the Finance Bill.
In a statement on Thursday, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) expressed concern over widespread human rights violations, excessive use of force by police, and attacks on media freedom during the protests.
KNCHR Vice Chairperson Dr Raymond Nyeris revealed that the deaths occurred in six different counties: Machakos (2), Makueni (2), Nakuru (1), Kiambu (1), Uasin Gishu (1), and Nyandarua (1).
He added that over 400 people were injured during the protests, including demonstrators, police officers, and journalists. Eight of the casualties had gunshot wounds, while 83 others were referred for specialised treatment.
KNCHR reported that 61 individuals were detained at various police stations nationwide, with the majority in Nairobi County, noting that some arrests had not been recorded at any police station.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights raised concerns over reports of criminal elements infiltrating otherwise peaceful demonstrations, attributing incidents of violence, looting, and property destruction to hired thugs.
“The Commission received information of infiltration of the demonstrations by criminal elements and destruction of property. Credible reports of ‘hired goons’ infiltrating protests in Eldoret, Mombasa, Nairobi, Nakuru, Nyeri, Kajiado, and Kisumu. These groups have engaged in violence, looting, and property destruction,” the statement read.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights strongly condemned the directive issued by the Communications Authority of Kenya instructing all media houses to cease live coverage of the protests. The Commission asserted that the order infringed upon the public’s constitutional right to access information.
“The Commission will continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates on the promotion and protection of human rights in the country during this period.”
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