The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) is concerned about how the police are handling the Nane Nane protests in Nairobi.
In a letter to the acting Inspector General of Police, Gilbert Masengeli, LSK President Faith Odhiambo criticized the use of masked and unmarked police officers.
She warned the police to stop using officers in balaclavas and other disguises, saying it could lead to crimes without accountability.
“We call upon the Acting Police Inspector General to refrain from deploying ununiformed or masked police officers dressed in hoodies, balaclavas, or other attire in an attempt to hide their identities,” Odhiambo wrote.
The LSK also said that police operations should be properly managed and that any force used against protesters must be necessary and fair.
They emphasized that excessive force should not be used against peaceful protesters.
“Excessive lethal and non-lethal force must not be used against protesters who do not pose an imminent threat of death or serious injury,” the LSK stated.
Odhiambo also spoke out against the harassment of Social Justice Center leaders, calling it an attempt to silence them.
The LSK urged the police to stop making random arrests and avoid using tear gas and water cannons against innocent people, especially mothers and children.
“We are deeply concerned by the harassment of leaders of Social Justice Centers by the National Police Service and other state agencies,” the LSK added.
“We condemn this use of intimidation tactics designed to force them to withdraw from participating in protests.”
On Thursday August 8, Kenyans took to the streets in Nairobi’s CBD and other areas for the planned Nane Nane protests.
By mid-morning, police had set up roadblocks on Thika Road and in Pangani. Clashes occurred, with police using tear gas to disperse protesters.
By Vivian K.