Human Rights Groups Call for IPOA Accountability Amid Protests
Human rights groups issued a joint statement on Saturday urging the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate cases of alleged police brutality during recent anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
Allegations of Excessive Force and Tragic Outcomes
In their public address to IPOA Chairperson Anne Makori, the organizations expressed serious concern over reports that law enforcement officers had used excessive force. They alleged that this had resulted in injuries and fatalities among unarmed protesters.
Documentation of Incidents
The groups claimed to have documented a distressing toll from the protests, citing 23 deaths, 34 disappearances, and 271 injuries. They emphasized the urgency of holding responsible officers accountable through thorough investigations and subsequent prosecutions.
Violation of Fundamental Rights
Quoting international and domestic legal frameworks, including Article 21 of the ICCPR and Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution, the statement underscored the right to peaceful assembly. It condemned the use of lethal force against demonstrators as a violation of these rights.
Principles on Use of Force
Referring to the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials, the groups reiterated that lethal force should only be employed in exceptional circumstances to protect life. They asserted that the reported incidents constituted a clear breach of these principles.
Coalition of Advocacy
The coalition comprised prominent organizations such as Amnesty International Kenya, Defenders Coalition, FIDA-Kenya, and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC). Their collective voice aimed to amplify calls for justice and transparency in handling the protests’ aftermath.
Concerns Over Military Deployment
Additionally, the groups expressed apprehension regarding the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). They warned that such measures could escalate tensions and worsen the situation in the days ahead.
International Obligations
Highlighting Kenya’s obligations under international law, particularly the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the statement stressed the need for adherence to human rights standards in policing.
Call to Action for IPOA
In a direct plea to IPOA, the groups demanded swift and thorough investigations into the alleged incidents. They urged IPOA to provide regular updates to the public on the progress of these investigations within a week.
