'Give police power to bite': Charles Owino defends use of live bullets on protesters

Speaking on Citizen TV's Daybreak show on Thursday, Owino pointed out that when protests escalate into the destruction of property, especially critical infrastructure, security officers are authorized to shoot protesters.

The former police spokesperson emphasized that police are well-trained in handling protesters, with procedures varying depending on the situation.

He explained, "Traditionally, we were trained to begin with a proclamation, asking those gathered to disperse immediately. If they refuse, then teargas is used. If they still resist, teargas and batons are employed to disperse them."

"But now when property is being destroyed. What do you do? Those are the times you use your firearms."

Owino responded to suggestions of using rubber bullets, stating, "Will rubber bullets stop them? We need to face reality. We must give police power to bite. When we were being taught that if necessary, target the ringleader. If the situation is so bad, you are told, 'That tall person in the red cap,' aim and fire."

He stressed, however, that police always strive to keep casualties to a minimum.

"Those are the procedures and it happens. So what we are saying is you limit casualties as much as possible. But this is not possible if we don't want to face the law," he added.

Referring to the recent intrusion of Parliament by anti-Finance Bill protestors, Owino noted that in such cases, police have no choice but to use additional force to attempt to neutralize the demonstrators.

"When individuals breach Parliament, especially targeting an armory, what else can be expected? We must adhere to the law and act within our limits to maintain order. Failure to do so will lead to anarchy," Owino concluded.

Owino's remarks come amid sharp criticism of the government over the killing of protestors during the ongoing anti-government protests currently in the third-week.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported on Monday that a total of 39 people have been killed in the ongoing anti-government demonstrations in Kenya.

The national rights watchdog also said there had been 32 cases of "enforced or involuntary disappearances" and 627 arrests of protesters.