Governor Kilonzo aks IPOA to investigate shooting of 18-year-old boy during anti-gov't protests in Emali

Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr has expressed concern over the shooting of 18-year-old Brian Muendo during Wednesday's anti-government demonstrations in Emali town.

Governor Kilonzo on Thursday said he was disturbed by the incident and called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to launch a thorough investigation into the matter.

According to Muendo's mother, Miriam Mbithe, her son was not involved in the protests and had simply walked out of their house when he was tragically struck by a police bullet in the lower abdomen.

The Makueni governor said while security officers have the responsibility to maintain law and order, they should respect the rights of citizens to peacefully assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities.

"Following these acts of police using excessive force against Kenyans, I call upon the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to promptly investigate the culpable officers and bring those responsible to account," Kilonzo said. 

Governor Kilonzo further expressed his condolences to the family and loved ones of Muendo and wished quick recovery to those injured during the demonstrations.

At least nine people are reported to have died in the protests, including four in Mlolongo, two in Kitengela and one in Emali in Makueni County.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki castigated opposition chief Raila Odinga for being the "architect of today’s lawlessness and impunity," while referring to the former prime minister as the poster boy for violent politics.

"From the 1982 attempted coup-de-tat to the 2007/08 post-election violence, this same politician and his collaborators, then and now, are associated with risky politics that has occasionally plunged our country into near destruction," said Kindiki.

The Interior boss added that persons who partook in the demonstrations, both directly and indirectly, will be dealt with in accordance with the law.