In a significant state address at the State House on Wednesday, President William Ruto mandated the immediate release of wrongfully arrested protesters from recent anti-government demonstrations.
Emphasizing the importance of adhering to the law, Ruto insisted that innocent individuals should not be detained.
"I urge criminal justice agencies to take effective measures and ensure that those innocently caught up and not implicated in crime be released and charges against them withdrawn," Ruto stated. This directive aims to allow security forces to focus on investigating severe criminal activities from the protests.
Ruto condemned the excessive use of force by police against protesters and called for an investigation into the resulting deaths. He urged the National Police Service (NPS) to act within constitutional mandates, promoting national objectives of integrity and professionalism. "All breaches and violations by police officers must be handled expeditiously through due process," Ruto added.
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Ruto announced plans to amend the Evidence and Witness Protection Acts to enhance governance and combat corruption. He aims to expedite corruption case investigations and prosecutions, targeting case conclusions within six months. "I will propose amendments to the Evidence Act and the Criminal Procedure Code, among other necessary legislative changes," noted Ruto.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported that 50 individuals have died since the anti-finance bill protests began on June 18, 2024. Additionally, 682 people were "arbitrarily arrested," and 59 were reportedly abducted by police and remain missing.
On July 16, more than 100 protesters in the capital were charged and released by a court after spending a night in police custody. Lawyer James wa Njeri confirmed that all 109 accused were released on a Ksh.500 cash bail, charged with 'drunk and disorderly' conduct.
