Rights bodies call for protection of peaceful protestors

Protesters light bonfire in Mathare, Nairobi County on July 12, 2023. [Denish Ochieng, Standard]

Intimidation of protestors and detention of journalists during demonstrations, top human rights violations by the government.

A report by Amnesty International and Civicus dubbed "people power under attack 2022," reveals that attacks on citizens and civil societies during picketing to respond to economic, political and social exclusion face an increasingly hostile environment.

It shows that 27 countries, among them Kenya, are experiencing severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms.

Jua Kali auto repair and parts trading centre in Kisumu burns down following protests in the area. July 12, 2023. [Michael Mute, Standard].

Civicus representative Lyssa John said this has resulted in attacks and killings on citizens in dire need for justice.

"Carry out independent, prompt and impartial investigations into all cases of attacks and killings of human rights defenders and journalists and ensure those responsible are brought to justice," said John.

She said some groups have been pressed in their process of repealing civic legislation, a norm adopted by many activists.