Kindiki launches probe into alleged anti-Finance Bill protest abuses

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki says the government is investigating allegations of abductions and rights violations during anti-Finance Bill protests.

 In a statement on Tuesday, 9th July 2024, Kindiki addressed concerns over the conduct of security forces during the demonstrations.

"Between 18th and 27th June 2024, demonstrations initially peaceful in nature, aimed at exercising fundamental rights such as freedom of assembly and petitioning, were marred by the actions of violent criminal elements," said Kindiki.

"These individuals not only terrorised the public but also attempted arson at Parliament and vandalism at the Chief Justice's office."

He said the government's commitment to upholding constitutional rights while maintaining civil order.

 "The right to demonstrate, like all constitutionally guaranteed freedoms, must be exercised within the confines of the law," added Kindiki.

 "Those responsible for crimes resulting in loss of life and property will face prosecution once ongoing investigations are concluded," he noted.

Addressing reports of alleged abductions and enforced disappearances involving security personnel, Kindiki said, "All individuals within Kenya's borders are protected against unlawful arrests or disappearances. Any infractions by law enforcement will be investigated, and appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible."

He reassured the public of the government's commitment to uphold constitutional rights. "We will not tolerate any violations, whether by security forces or private individuals," he said.

Kindiki’s statement comes days after he claimed only 25 lives were lost during the nationwide anti-Finance Bill protests. Speaking on Citizen TV, Kindiki said that 400 other people were injured, among them at least 43 police officers.

However, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has confirmed the deaths of 41 people and over 360 injuries mostly attributed to police action.

KHRC said that 627 people had been arrested during the protests with at least 39 deaths recorded as at 1st July.

The Commission said 361 were injured during the countrywide anti-Finance Bill protests.

 It said the deceased victims were from Nairobi (17), Nakuru (3), Laikipia (1), Narok (1), Kajiado (3), Uasin Gishu (4), Kakamega (1), Kisumu (2), Kisii (1), Mombasa (3), Siaya (1), Kiambu (1), and Nandi (1).