Friday, June 27, 2025 - The United Nations Human Rights Commission has strongly condemned the alleged use of lethal force by Kenyan police during anti-Government protests on Wednesday, June 25th, which reportedly left over 16 people dead.
In a statement released on Thursday, June 26th,
the UN described the events as "deeply concerning" and accused
President William Ruto’s administration of violating both international human
rights law and the Kenyan Constitution.
According to the UN, the use of lethal force by law
enforcement is only justified when absolutely necessary to protect life or
prevent serious injury from an imminent threat.
The commission criticized the Government for allegedly
suppressing citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
"We are deeply concerned by reports of several deaths
of protesters and many more injuries to protesters and police officers during
demonstrations in Kenya," the statement read.
"The rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of
expression are cornerstones of the rule of law and must be respected and upheld
by all."
The UN urged the Kenyan Government to swiftly investigate
the incidents and hold accountable any officers found to have acted unlawfully.
The organization also called on the Independent Policing
Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct thorough and transparent investigations
into police conduct during the protests.
The June 25th demonstrations, held in memory of
youthful protesters killed outside Parliament in 2023, quickly escalated into
violence.
Widely circulated images and videos showed police officers
firing tear gas and clashing with demonstrators nationwide.
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