Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga has condemned the police for arbitrary arrests, detentions, and excessive use of force during the thwarted Nane Nane protests.
Raila on police harassment
Raila in a statement issued on Saturday, August 10, 2024, said the actions by the police led to the harassment of peaceful protesters and journalists.
“Fellow Kenyans, I have been made aware of the events that transpired during the peaceful Nane nane protests. It is with deep concern that I learned of the arbitrary arrests, detentions, and excessive use of force by the police, which led to the harassment of peaceful protesters and journalists, including a member of the international press, Larry Madowo of CNN,” Raila’s statement reads in part.
Raila on violation of rights
The Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition party leader who is now eyeing the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship seat says the police actions are a direct violation of the rights enshrined in the Kenyan constitution.
Raila says the police had also violated fundamental pillars of the constitution, by interfering with the peaceful protests and failing to protect the journalists.
“These actions are not only unacceptable but also a direct violation of the rights enshrined in our Constitution.
“The right to peaceful assembly, the freedom of expression, and the protection of journalists are fundamental pillars of our democracy, pillars that we have fought long and hard to establish and must continue to protect,” Raila stated.
Raila demands action
Raila further stated that he stands with the people of Kenya in their quest for justice.
The former Prime Minister has called on relevant authorities to respect the constitutional rights of all Kenyans, urging the police to immediately release the protesters who were arrested and detained during the protests.
“I want to make it clear that I stand with the people in their quest for justice, freedom, and the full realization of their rights. I strongly condemn the actions taken by the police yesterday and call upon the relevant authorities to respect the constitutional rights of all Kenyans.
“I also urge the immediate release of those who were unjustly detained and a thorough investigation into the misconduct of the officers involved,” he noted.
“Let us remain united in our resolve to create a Kenya that respects the rule of law, upholds the rights of its citizens, and values the role of a free and fair press. Together, we will continue this struggle, and together, we will achieve the Kenya we all deserve,” he added.
The constitution guarantees the right to peaceably picket, demonstrate, and protest. The police must avoid the temptation of arbitrary arrests, detentions, and excessive use of force. pic.twitter.com/MtzoklJeYH
— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) August 10, 2024
