UN Faults Ruto's Gov't Over Police Brutality During Protests

The UN Human Rights Office has called for investigations into the police brutality reported during the recent Azimio protests.

Speaking on Friday, spokesperson Jeremy Laurence reported that 23 people died and dozens sustained injuries in the Azimio-led demonstrations. Laurence condemned the disproportionate use of force by the police and highlighted that those who are responsible must be held responsible. He also noted that Azimio had announced plans for protests in the coming week and reminded the authorities that they must uphold the rights of Kenyans as enshrined in Article 37 of the Constitution.

The spokesperson urged the government and opposition to engage in dialogue and address their issues for the sake of the people. On Thursday, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported that nine people had been killed by gunshot wounds on the Wednesday protests, four in Mlolongo, two in Kitengela, one along Juja Road and one in Emali in Makueni County.

Meanwhile, Unicef has condemned the use of tear gas on children during the anti-government protests. In a statement on Friday, the UN agency urged the government and the opposition to take necessary steps to guarantee the security and welfare of children throughout the nation. It also emphasized that children should never be exposed to any kind of danger and that their right to education must be defended.

UNICEF has declared its dedication to partnering with local and national entities to make sure that children throughout the country are safe. The statement follows Wednesday's tragic incident that saw police throw tear gas into a classroom filled with children from KihumbuIni Primary School in Kangemi, where more than 50 pupils were taken to the hospital. The majority of them were affected by the fumes, but fortunately, no casualties have been reported.