NCCK demands report of all abductions, arrests during demos

NCCK has asked IG Japheth Koome to give a comprehensive report of everyone abducted or arrested by security agents during ongoing demonstrations.

The council's Central chapter said the abductions have instilled fear in Kenyans and need to stop.

Chairman Timothy Gichere asked police to stop shooting demonstrators and use of excessive force.

He said those arrested should also be released unconditionally since they were exercising their rights.

Gichere urged the police to provide security to Kenyans participating in peaceful protests.

Gichere's statement was read by treasurer Njuguna Wanyoike during a two-day induction workshop for elected officials.

The officials were elected to NCCK committees for Embu, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Nyeri, Nyandarua and Laikipia counties.

He said it is unfortunate that young people died while politicians were busy chest thumping instead of addressing the issues.

“They are making their contributions in reshaping this nation and should be listened to by all,” Gichere said.

He called for speedy reconstitution of the IEBC by appointing commissioners.

The council lit candles and prayed for those killed and injured during the protest.

 “To further honour their sacrifice, we have continued with marking seven days of mourning that will culminate in a memorial service in all churches on Sunday” Gichere said.

The council urged Kenyans to join them in marking Saba Saba in honour of those killed.

Among the issues NCCK wants sorted are access to education and jobs for the youth.

Gichere said if this is sorted, the youth will have dignified livelihoods and will be equipped for leadership.

Wangari Kameru, NCCK central region woman representative defended the council, saying it opposed the Finance Bill, 2024 before the protest began.

“We told the government when the Bill was at the proposal stage that it will not fit the current economic situation” she said.

“We even took a memorandum to Parliament to tell them to amend it before taking it to the people but they refused to hear us.”

They appealed to the youth to ensure their demonstrations are peaceful.

NCCK Central youth secretary Peter Njoroge said it is unfortunate that the youth died fighting for a good cause.

“They believed in a future where fairness and equity prevail, where voices of the marginalised are heard and where people can live in dignity and hope,” he said.