Former Chief Justice Teargassed in Activist Release Push
Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga was tear-gassed at the Central Police Station on Saturday, July 8, as he demanded the release of activists arrested during the Saba Saba demonstrations.
Mutunga was with Boniface Mwangi and several other activists. The disturbance at the police station resulted in the injury of one individual.
Professional photojournalist and activist Mwangi condemned the action and accused Moses Mutayi of the OCS Central Police Station of violating their right to picket and demonstrate.
“The police have decided to teargas their place of employment and assault some of us. Mwangi lamented that President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua continue to undermine the Constitution.
Earlier, he had criticized the current regime, claiming that it thwarted former Chief Justice and seasoned attorney John Khaminwa’s efforts to release the detained protesters on bail.
Commissioner of the Kenya National Commission for Human Rights Victor Kamau and city attorney Lempaa Soyinka accompanied the trio to the Central Police Station as well.
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Mwangi added, “These three attorneys camped here to demand the unconditional release of 32 peaceful citizens who were arrested yesterday in the Central Business District for participating in the Saba Saba protests.”
Mwangi also urged Raila Odinga and Martha Karua, leaders of the opposition, to intervene and secure the protesters’ release.
The retired Chief Justice purchased food and water for the arrested activists on Friday, July 7.
Mutunga opined that the police made a mistake by arresting the protestors, citing Article 37 of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, which outlines the right to protest and assemble.
According to human rights organizations, more than seventeen protesters were detained and dozens were injured. The organizations demanded the activists’ unconditional release.
“Article 21 of the Constitution mandates that the police uphold, promote, and defend human rights, including the right to peaceful assembly. The National Police Service Act’s 2nd Schedule mandates that police use force only as a last resort and in a responsible manner. Amnesty International asserts that the use of force is only permissible under certain conditions, such as to protect life.
Former Chief Justice Teargassed in Activist Release Push
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