On June 25, 2024, a peaceful protest against a controversial finance bill in Nairobi, Kenya turned deadly when security forces opened fire on demonstrators, resulting in multiple fatalities.
The BBC has identified the officers involved, raising serious concerns about police conduct during the protests.
Key Takeaways
- Protest Background: Thousands of young Kenyans protested against a finance bill that included significant tax increases.
- Fatal Shootings: At least three protesters were killed, with evidence suggesting they were unarmed.
- Lack of Accountability: Despite public outcry, no security personnel have been held accountable for the shootings.
- Government Response: President William Ruto later withdrew the finance bill amid growing public pressure.
The Protests Begin
The protests, primarily led by young people mobilized through social media, began early in the morning. Activists described the atmosphere as festive, with participants bringing music and refreshments.
However, tensions escalated as protesters aimed to reach the parliament where the final vote on the finance bill was scheduled.
By mid-afternoon, the situation had deteriorated. Police deployed tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, which had swelled to over 100,000 participants.
As protesters pushed against police barricades, chaos ensued, leading to violent confrontations.
The Fatal Shootings
As the protests intensified, a plain-clothes officer was recorded shouting orders to “kill” before gunfire erupted.
The BBC’s investigation revealed that the victims, including David Chege and Ericsson Mutisya, were unarmed and posed no threat when they were shot.
- Victims Identified:
- David Chege: A 39-year-old software engineer, shot dead during the protests.
- Ericsson Mutisya: A 25-year-old butcher, also killed by gunfire.
- Eric Shieni: A 27-year-old finance student, shot in the head as he attempted to flee the scene.
Government and Police Response
Despite the shocking events, the Kenyan government has yet to hold any officers accountable. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) was tasked with investigating the incidents, but no findings have been released to the public.
President Ruto’s administration faced significant backlash for its handling of the protests. In a televised address, he acknowledged the public’s concerns and ultimately decided to withdraw the controversial finance bill, stating, “I concede to the people of Kenya.”
The Aftermath
The violence has sparked widespread outrage across Kenya, with human rights organizations calling for accountability and an independent investigation into the police’s actions.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported that at least 39 people died during the protests, with hundreds more injured.
As the nation grapples with the implications of this violence, the call for justice and reform in police conduct remains a pressing issue.
The tragic events of June 25 serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the need for accountability in law enforcement.