The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has voiced serious concerns over the violence and fatalities associated with recent protests that erupted in Kenya on July 7. In a statement, the OHCHR called upon Kenyan authorities to thoroughly investigate these violent occurrences, which reportedly led to at least 10 civilian deaths and more than 80 injuries involving both protesters and police officers.
The protests, held in commemoration of the July 7, 1990 demonstration advocating for an end to Kenya’s one-party state, devolved into clashes with law enforcement. Security forces reportedly used lethal ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas to disperse the crowds. The mass gathering was part of ongoing demonstrations that gained momentum following the death of activist Albert Ojwang in police custody, triggering a resurgence of protests not seen since the debates around the 2024 Finance Bill.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, stressed the importance of accountability for those responsible for the violence. Türk also urged the Kenyan government to comply with international human rights regulations concerning the use of force by law enforcement officials. According to the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials, force should only be used when absolutely necessary, and officials are required to take measures to minimize harm.
Türk also emphasized the necessity for the Kenyan government to respect and uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. While addressing these concerns, he reiterated the office’s willingness to assist Kenyan authorities in tackling the inherent challenges and in conducting investigations into the allegations of violence.
The recurring tensions in Kenya underscore persistent socio-political issues, with public demonstrations increasingly highlighting dissatisfaction with alleged police brutality and governmental corruption, reminiscent of the protests against the 2024 Finance Bill’s unpopular tax increases. These ongoing societal challenges continue to test the commitment of both national and international stakeholders to uphold human rights and justice.
For additional insights, the original article detailing these events can be accessed on the JURIST website.