Associations condemn human rights abuses amid protests

Youths stage a protest march in Nairobi as they pay tribute to colleagues killed during last week's anti-tax protests. [John Muchucha, Standard]

Six national associations have condemned the current state of human rights in the country.

In a joint statement on Monday, July 1, the associations, led by content creators, journalists, medical practitioners, and human rights defenders, outlined their position on policy dialogue and proposed measures to address the crisis.

The associations reported 627 arrests and 32 abductions, emphasizing the distinction between abductions-where individuals are detained without formal charges-and lawful arrests.

Medical personnel have faced arrests and disruptions in their work, while legal professionals have encountered obstacles in accessing their clients, often subjected to intimidation tactics.

Journalists covering the protests have also endured harassment, arbitrary arrests, and assaults.

"As of last night, 24 individuals have tragically lost their lives due to police actions, with at least 361 people sustaining injuries. Among the youngest victims is 12-year-old Kennedy Onyango," the statement read.

As a result, at least 24 people are said to have been killed so far, with scores of others injured.

Their statement comes in the wake of Finance Bill 2024 protests, where security personnel have been accused of using excessive force.

"The coalition acknowledges the announcement from State House regarding a multi-sectoral dialogue to address policy issues raised by the youth-led protest movement, Generation," the coalition added.

However, the coalition called for immediate executive action to meet demands for public accountability and justice for victims of violence.

"Decisive executive action, not solely national conversations, is crucial to restore trust in governance institutions and foster national unity," the statement noted.