The United Nations has expressed concern over the deadly anti-government protests that rocked Kenya on Wednesday, calling for calm and restraint as tensions remain high.
According to reports, at least 400 people were injured in the protests, including police officers. Although an official death toll has not been confirmed, estimates range from eight to sixteen.
The demonstrations coincided with the anniversary of the 2024 anti-tax protests, during which 60 people were reportedly killed and dozens abducted by police. This year’s unrest was further inflamed by the recent death of blogger Albert Ojwan, 31, who died in police custody earlier this month.
Protesters reportedly stormed government and police offices, called for occupation of the presidential residence, and attacked, looted, and set fire to shops and businesses in Nairobi.
On Thursday, as smoke continued to rise from the charred remains of buildings in the capital, the UN human rights office (OHCHR) released a statement condemning the violence.
OHCHR voiced concern over reports that demonstrators were injured or killed by gunfire, stressing that the use of lethal force must comply with international human rights law, only being permitted when strictly necessary to protect life or prevent serious injury from an imminent threat.
The UN office welcomed the announcement that Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority will investigate the incidents and urged “prompt, thorough, independent and transparent investigations to bring those responsible to justice” and prevent future violations.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, speaking at the daily press briefing in New York, echoed these concerns.
“We are obviously concerned about the violence we have seen in Kenya. We are closely monitoring the situation. We are very saddened by the loss of life,” Dujarric said.
Kenya’s Interior Minister, Kipchumba Murkomen, accused protesters of attempting to force regime change through unconstitutional means. He stated that nine police stations were attacked, dozens of vehicles destroyed, and five guns stolen.
(NAN)