In the wake of a revealing BBC documentary titled “Blood Parliament,” Amnesty Kenya has launched a petition demanding a thorough investigation into the violent protests that occurred in June 2024.
The documentary exposed the alleged involvement of security forces in the killings of peaceful demonstrators, igniting public outrage and calls for justice.
Key Takeaways
- Amnesty Kenya has initiated a petition for a public inquiry into the June 2024 protests.
- The BBC documentary revealed evidence of police and military involvement in the killings of protesters.
- Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji has called for government accountability and compensation for victims’ families.
- The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is currently investigating the incidents.
Background of the Protests
The protests, which erupted on June 25, 2024, were primarily against a controversial finance bill.
Demonstrators gathered outside Parliament, demanding accountability and transparency from the government.
However, the protests turned deadly as security forces allegedly used excessive force, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.
The BBC Documentary
The BBC’s “Blood Parliament” documentary has drawn significant attention for its in-depth investigation into the events of that day. Key findings include:
- Allegations of Police Involvement: The documentary identified members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service (NPS) as being involved in the shootings of unarmed protesters.
- Casualties: At least six protesters were confirmed dead, with many more injured due to the use of live ammunition and tear gas.
- Forced Disappearances: The documentary highlighted that approximately 89 individuals went missing during the protests, raising concerns about human rights violations.
Public Reaction
The release of the documentary has sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans. Many have taken to social media to express their anger and demand justice for the victims.
Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji emphasized the need for the government to respond to the documentary’s findings and provide compensation to the families of those who lost their lives.
“It is a shame that we have to wait for the BBC to create a documentary so that we can start answering the questions about what happened,” Mukunji stated, urging the government to take responsibility.
Amnesty Kenya’s Petition
In response to the documentary, Amnesty Kenya has called for a public inquiry into the events of June 25.
The organization is urging citizens to watch the documentary and sign the petition available on its website. The petition aims to:
- Establish a Commission of Inquiry: This would allow victims and witnesses to present evidence regarding the police violence during the protests.
- Ensure Accountability: The petition seeks to hold those responsible for the unlawful use of force accountable for their actions.
Ongoing Investigations
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has reported that it is actively investigating the incidents surrounding the protests.
As of now, IPOA has completed 22 investigations and is pursuing 36 others, with several cases already before the courts.
However, challenges such as non-cooperation from police officers have hindered progress in some investigations.
Conclusion
The events surrounding the June 2024 protests and the subsequent revelations from the BBC documentary have reignited discussions about police accountability and human rights in Kenya.
As public pressure mounts, the government faces increasing demands for transparency and justice for the victims of the protests.
The outcome of the ongoing investigations and the response from the authorities will be crucial in determining the future of civil rights in the country.
