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Amnesty calls for the release of arrested protesters

It has also asked the police to refrain from using excessive and unlawful force.

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by FELIX KIPKEMOI

News07 July 2023 - 12:13
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In Summary


  • It says the protesters should be allowed to express themselves and register their dissent with recent taxation measures and the cost of living.
  • The official reminded the police bosses of the rights of those arrested saying they must be given information on why they have been arrested.
Amnesty International Kenya director Irungu Houghton addresses journalists on police brutality during the March 20 protests in the country.

A human rights group is now demanding the immediate release of all protesters arrested for participating in the Azimio la Umoja demonstrations.

Amnesty International, in a statement, has also asked the police to desist from using excessive and unlawful force that may result in injuries and deaths.

“We have received reports of arbitrary arrests of protestors in Nairobi, Western Kenya and selective excessive force against those exercising their right,” Executive Director Irungu Houghton said.

“Police to release those lawfully exercising their right to protest."

According to the organization, measures taken to ensure the Kamukunji rally proceeds peacefully ought to have been deployed across all other parts of the country.

According to Irungu, the protesters should be allowed to express themselves and register their dissent with recent taxation measures and the cost of living.

He notes that today's protest commemorates the historical "Saba Saba" movement which “significantly expanded human rights and democracy” during the second liberation in the 1990s.

The official has also reminded the police bosses of the rights of those arrested saying they must be given information on why they are being arrested, freedom from torture, cruel and inhumane treatment, and assistance from friends, family and legal counsel.

Warning against a similar occurrence as witnessed during the previous demonstration, the group noted that it has documented the misuse of live bullets and teargas, resulting in deaths, injuries, and destruction.

Dozens of protesters were arrested along Harambee Avenue in Nairobi.

Police in plain clothes arrested the protesters and forced them into a police vehicle.

This was after the police used tear gas to disperse protesters who had started to converge at Harambee Avenue.

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