NAIROBI, Kenya — The United Kingdom (UK) embassy in Kenya has voiced significant concern over the violence directed at protesters during Tuesday’s demonstrations in Nairobi Central Business District (CBD).
In an official statement, the UK mission declared itself “deeply disturbed by violence against unarmed civilians and protesters” and called upon the Kenyan government to conduct a thorough investigation into the conduct of the police.
“We urge a swift, independent and transparent investigation into the actions of the police,” the statement read in part, underscoring the embassy’s demand for accountability. The UK mission stressed that security officers must be held to the highest standards of accountability and restraint, urging them to consistently adhere to their mandate.
“Police forces must command the trust and confidence of those they are duty-bound to serve and protect,” the statement further asserted.
The embassy also extended its sympathies to those affected by the protests, conveying: “We send our best wishes for the swift recovery of those injured during yesterday’s violence.”
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The demonstrations, initiated by activists seeking justice for the death of teacher Albert Ojwang, saw a police officer captured on video shooting a man at close range. The victim of this shooting is currently receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital.
The incident has fueled widespread outrage regarding the use of force by security agencies during public protests, prompting human rights groups to demand disciplinary action and justice for the victims.
Albert Ojwang is reported to have died while in custody at the Central Police Station in Nairobi on June 7. Subsequently, several officers who were on duty at the time have been questioned by the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) as part of their investigation into the incident.
Currently, the station’s Officer Commanding Station (OCS), a junior officer serving as cell sentry, and six other civilians remain in custody pending the ongoing investigations.
