11 people killed in Kisumu, Kisii during July maandamano - Amnesty International

A new report by Amnesty International has revealed that about 11 people lost their lives in Kisumu and Kisii counties during the anti-government demonstrations a fortnight ago.

Findings from the report, released in conjunction with the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Kenya Medical Association (KMA) on Friday, show that police used excessive force to disperse protestors during the riots.

"Between 28-30 July 2023, Amnesty International Kenya, the Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Medical Association visited Kisumu and Kisii Counties," the three organisations noted in a joint statement.

"We are saddened to report that preliminary investigations confirm that at least eleven people were killed, most suffering bullet wounds and a few cases of blunt-force trauma."

The report's findings also revealed that during the period, 107 police assault cases were recorded in the two regions, with 47 of these being gunshot related.

"Initial reports indicate that police shot indiscriminately at unarmed protestors, including those who had surrendered or were running away from the police," the statement added.

"In one incident, an unarmed protestor, who served as an eyewitness in an arson incident, was shot and killed by a police officer."

According to the three bodies, the State should assure the safety of families and victims who are yet to report violations out of fear of intimidation or re-victimisation at police stations.

Amnesty International Executive Director Irungu Houghton has since urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct an independent probe into the said cases of police killing Kenyans because of using excessive force.

"Victims and survivors of violent acts by police officers have a constitutional right to life and equal protection before the law," he said.

"These violations must not go unresolved. Police officers found culpable of using excess force must face a court of law and answer to these charges alongside their commanding officers."