June 25 protests: KNCHR urges police to weed out 'hired goons,' wear official uniform

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has called for peaceful demonstrations and strict adherence to the rule of law during the planned protests set for Wednesday.

In a statement on Tuesday, KNCHR Vice Chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris urged all parties—including demonstrators, the police, and the business community—to exercise their rights while respecting the rights of others.

“Demonstrators have the right to demonstrate and commensurate responsibility to do it peacefully and unarmed. The Business Community have the right to earn a livelihood without interference anywhere they desire in the Republic. The Police have a right to undertake their duties without interference or provocation and a duty to operate within the law and as per their Service Standing Orders,” stated Dr. Nyeris.

Citing the recent High Court directive barring officers from wearing face coverings during demos, the Commission also reminded security officers that all personnel assigned to demonstrations must wear full official uniform and remain identifiable throughout the operation.

“The Commission further calls on the police to comply with the High Court ruling that requires all security officers assigned to handle demonstrations to be in official uniform and remain identifiable at all times. This applies to individual security officers and vehicles," added Dr. Nyeris.

High Court Judge Justice Bahati Mwamuye, early this month, found that the wearing of face coverings by law enforcement officers while engaging citizens, particularly during protests, is unconstitutional as it violates the rights to accountability, transparency, and the identification of state agents during the exercise of coercive power.

The Commission noted the presence of "hired goons," as previously observed during the recent demonstrations calling for justice for slain Albert Ojwang, and warned that such individuals operate outside the law.

KNCHR emphasised that while the police have a right to perform their duties, they also have a constitutional obligation to act professionally and with impartiality, in line with Article 244 of the Constitution, further appealing for the use of limited force.

“We wish to note that a fourth group previously observed on the streets, commonly referred to as ‘hired goons,’ is operating outside the law,” said Dr. Nyeris.

“The police must isolate the criminal elements who may infiltrate peaceful demonstrations. The use of force by security officers should be a last resort and must be necessary and proportionate."

The Commission has implored all citizens to be vigilant and respectful of both public and private property and encouraged the public to report any human rights concerns.

The development comes after Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja cautioned protesters to steer clear of protected areas ahead of the planned demonstrations on Wednesday, June 24, that will honour those who lost their lives during the anti-Finance Bill protests last year.