Police deployed in protests denied food, water and allowance - IPOA

The welfare of police officers deployed to enforce order during the June 25 and July 7 nationwide protests was not considered, a new report by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) says.

Kenyans took to the streets in the first demos to mark the first anniversary of last year’s deadly protests against proposed taxes, while the subsequent demos commemorated the country’s historic ‘Saba Saba’ pro-democracy march of 1990.

In its findings released on Thursday after monitoring the turn of events in both protests, IPOA reported that officers deployed to enforce order and protect vital governmental and public installations received inadequate meals, drinking water, and access to essential resources.

“IPOA monitors observed that police officers deployed were not provided with meals during the demonstrations,” read part of the findings.

The authority has recommended that the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, allocate a budget to ensure the welfare issue that was raised in the findings is well catered for.

“The Inspector General of Police should allocate a sufficient budget to ensure that meals, water, and allowances are provided for police officers deployed to provide security during protests,” recommended IPOA.

At the same time, IPOA said it documented instances where commanding officers refused to receive notifications of intended protests, in contravention of the Public Order Act.

The oversight body recommended that the Police Inspector General ensure all police assets and vehicles are clearly marked during demos to enhance accountability, identification, and emergency response.

“Additionally, the IGP should adopt the use of body-worn cameras and videography during protests to strengthen accountability and support evidence-based prosecution of offenders,” said IPOA.

IPOA has urged the IG to ensure prompt medical assistance for injured protesters and protect healthcare workers and facilities, especially in high-risk areas. It further recommends the formation of a dedicated Public Hospital Security Unit.

To promote peaceful assemblies, IPOA advocates for proactive engagement between police and protest organizers, alongside a national civic education program targeting civil society groups working on police reforms and human rights.

Further, IPOA wants the National Police Service Commission to launch a recruitment drive to improve the current officer-to-citizen ratio from 1:600 to the recommended 1:450.