Governor condemns shooting of unarmed protesters as victim's family seeks justice

In a press statement to newsrooms, Governor Mutula termed the killing of Ngolanye unjustifiable, calling out the police for using excessive force on unarmed residents.

"On 19th July 2023, the police once again shot an innocent bystander, Mr Peter Ngolanye, a water vendor in Wote town. The bullet that went through his chest cavity caused him to bleed to death on the streets of Wote town. I once again reiterate my position that there is no legal justification for the police to shoot unarmed Kenyans particularly when they are demonstrating peacefully or going about their normal businesses," Mutula said in a statement.

He added: "It is disheartening to note that despite several and similar complains on the use of live bullets against innocent Kenyans, the police continue to shoot and kill Kenyans leaving their families and friends in deep shock and agony."

Live ammunition

"It certainly pains me as the governor of Makueni and legal human rights defender, that the Kenya Police have decided to use guns and live ammunition in an attempt to silence and/or intimidate peaceful Kenyans," Mutula said.

He called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to immediately investigate the two killings - one in Emali where one person who was identified as 18-year-old Brian Muendo, was killed last week, as well as the latest case in Wote.

The governor also observed a need for political leaders to embrace dialogue in the face of crises.