24 killed, 32 abducted over Kenya protests: Amnesty International

Twenty-four Kenyans had as of Sunday night been confirmed dead from police brutality in the recent nationwide protests, Amnesty International has said.

In a statement on Monday, the human rights group said the youngest casualty is a twelve-year-old identified as Kennedy Onyango.

Further, 361 people have been injured, 627 arrested and 32 abductions made from the onset of the anti-Finance Bill 2024 and anti-government demonstrations on June 18.

"Abduction and detention differ from an arrest Many of those abducted by state officers were not read the charges against them or booked into a police station. Tens have been held incommunicado and denied access to their families, legal representation and medical assistance," Amnesty said.

The organisation condemned the use of excessive police force against emergency response teams and journalists.

“Medical personnel have come under fire, arrested by state officers and had their patient lists stolen from mobile emergency centres serving the injured. Lawyers have been denied access to their clients, arrested, and intimidated by officers of the state to drop cases," Amnesty said.

"Journalists covering the protests have had their cameras confiscated, arrested and beaten in broad daylight. Staff operating helplines and funds set up to support legal representation and medical assistance have faced several experiences."

They further demanded that the government should heed the demands made by the Kenyan youth including the release of those held incommunicado by police authorities and being accountable in governance.

"Release those arbitrarily arrested and an end to extrajudicial killings among other demands. Many of their demands, in our view, do not require policy dialogue but decisive executive action," said Amnesty.

The nationwide protests have shown a stark dejection among the Kenyan youth against President William Ruto's government, with some even calling for his resignation and the withdrawal of his Cabinet.

During a round-table session in State House on Sunday, President Ruto said that he will ensure no police force is used against peaceful protesters as Kenyans stage to take the streets this Tuesday and Thursday.