KNCHR calls for adherence to laws ahead of Wednesday demos

Kenya National Commission on Human Rights vice chairman Raymond Nyeris. [File, Standard]

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has called on the security officers to uphold human rights and adhere to the rule of law during the planned demonstrations on Wednesday.

In a statement on Tuesday, the commission vice chairman Raymond Nyeris acknowledged that the demonstrators have a right to protest peacefully and unarmed.

He added that traders also have the right to run their businesses and earn their daily livelihood without any interference from the demonstrations.

"The Police have a right to undertake their duties without interference or provocation and a duty to operate within the law and as per their Service Standing Orders. We wish to note that a fourth group previously observed on the streets commonly referred to as 'hired goons' is operating outside the law," stated Nyeris.

The commission has called on the police and other security agencies to conduct themselves impartially, professionally and avoid excessive use of force.

"The police must isolate the criminal elements who may infiltrate peaceful demonstrations. The use of force by security officers should be a last resort and must be necessary and proportionate," the commission urged.

It has further urged the police to comply with the High Court ruling, which requires all security officers assigned to handle demonstrations to wear official uniforms and remain identifiable at all times.

The commission statement comes hours ahead of the planned Wednesday protest to commemorate the first anniversary of the 2024 anti-government protests.