11 Dead in Kisumu, Kisii During Protests – Amnesty
A recent Amnesty International study has disclosed that approximately eleven individuals died in the protests against the government that took place two weeks ago in the counties of Kisumu and Kisii.
The report, which was published in collaboration with the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) on Friday, reveals that the police employed disproportionate force to scatter demonstrators amidst the riots.
“Between 28-30 July 2023, Amnesty International Kenya, the Law Society of Kenya, and the Kenya Medical Association visited Kisumu and Kisii Counties,” the three organizations noted in a joint statement.
“We are saddened to report that preliminary investigations confirm that at least eleven people were killed, most suffering bullet wounds and a few cases of blunt-force trauma.”
The results of the report also indicated that there were 107 instances of police assaults documented in the two areas within that timeframe, with 47 of these incidents involving gunshots.
ALSO READ: President Ruto Applauds Peaceful Police Amid Protests
“Initial reports indicate that police shot indiscriminately at unarmed protestors, including those who had surrendered or were running away from the police,” the statement added.
“In one incident, an unarmed protestor, who served as an eyewitness in an arson incident, was shot and killed by a police officer.”
As per the viewpoints of the three organizations, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure the security of families and individuals who haven’t yet come forward to report violations due to concerns about being intimidated or facing further victimization when dealing with law enforcement agencies.
Amnesty International’s Executive Director, Irungu Houghton, has called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to carry out an impartial investigation into the incidents involving the fatal shootings of Kenyan citizens due to the use of disproportionate force by the police.
“Victims and survivors of violent acts by police officers have a constitutional right to life and equal protection before the law,” he said.
“These violations must not go unresolved. Police officers found culpable of using excess force must face a court of law and answer to these charges alongside their commanding officers.”
11 Dead in Kisumu, Kisii During Protests – Amnesty