Azimio leader Raila Odinga criticized the police for their conduct during the Nane Nane protests on Thursday. In a statement, Raila condemned the police actions as unacceptable and a violation of the Constitutional rights of the people.
The former Prime Minister said he was informed of arbitrary arrests, excessive use of force by the police, and harassment of journalists and protesters.
“The right to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and protection of journalists are fundamental pillars of our democracy. These are pillars we’ve fought hard to establish and must continue to defend,” Raila stated.
He affirmed his support for Kenyans in their pursuit of justice and the realization of their rights, calling for the immediate release of all those arrested during the demonstrations. Additionally, Raila demanded an investigation into the conduct of the police officers involved in the harassment and detention of peaceful protesters.
“I strongly condemn the actions taken by the police and urge the relevant authorities to respect the constitutional rights of all Kenyans,” he said.
Raila also called for unity in the ongoing effort to create a Kenya that upholds the rule of law. “Together, we will continue this struggle, and together, we will achieve the Kenya we all deserve,” he added.
The ODM party echoed Raila’s demands on Friday, calling for the release of over 70 people arrested during the protests, including persons with disabilities. “The majority are being held at Central Police Station in Nairobi. It’s important to note that some of those arrested are persons living with disabilities (PWDs),” ODM stated.
On Thursday, a group of Kenyans took to the streets for the “Nane Nane” protests, leading to several arrests and confrontations with the police.
There was a heavy deployment of anti-riot police, some stationed in strategic locations, others patrolling on foot, and others using trucks. While Nairobi remained the epicenter of the protests, other areas of the country that had previously experienced unrest were relatively calm.
