The United States government has condemned the recent incident in Nairobi where police officers used teargas against demonstrators protesting the alarming rise in femicide cases across the country. The incident occurred on International Human Rights Day, a day recognized globally for reflecting on and upholding human rights.
In a statement posted on X, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi expressed dismay at the police actions against Kenyans exercising their constitutional right to assemble and protest peacefully. “It is regrettable and concerning to see police action against citizens advocating for their rights,” the statement said. “Such actions undermine the rule of law and reinforce the impunity that perpetuates violence against women.”
The embassy called for the immediate release of all protesters and urged the Inspector General of Police to launch an investigation into the violent arrests and hold those responsible accountable.
This incident highlights a growing concern about human rights in Kenya, particularly following a recent report that identified the country as one of 50 in sub-Saharan Africa where administrations have actively suppressed human rights in the past year. The annual report titled People Power Under Attack 2024, produced by the global civil society organization CIVICUS, downgraded Kenya’s status from “obstructed” to “repressed” due to police brutality witnessed during the Gen Z protests earlier this year.
The report also accused authorities of disrupting peaceful demonstrations through the use of excessive force, engaging in abductions, and prosecuting human rights defenders, protesters, and journalists. Furthermore, Kenyan law enforcement was criticized for involvement in extrajudicial killings and abductions during these protests.
As the situation develops, the call for accountability and respect for human rights in Kenya remains pressing.
