Editor's Review

 KNCHR said that they had recorded 32 cases of abductions and 627 instances of arrests of protestors. 

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has disclosed that 39 people have died and 361 injured since the anti-finance bill protests began on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. 

In a press statement to newsrooms on Monday, July 1, KNCHR Chairperson Roseline Odede said that they've recorded 32 cases of abductions. 

"Data from our records indicates that thirty-nine (39) people have died and three hundred and sixty-one (361) injured in relation to the protests countrywide. This is cumulative data from 18th June 2024 to 1st July 2024.

"Post mortems for most of the victims are yet to be conducted. The dead are from Nairobi (17), Nakuru (3), Laikipia (1), Narok (1), Kajiado (3), Uasin Gishu (4), Kakamega (1), Kisumu (2), Kisii (1), Mombasa (3), Siaya (1), Kiambu (1) and Nandi (1). We condole with the families," part of the statement by KNCHR reads in part. 

Protestors storm Parliament buildings on Tuesday, June 25 during anti-finance bill demos. 

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The National Human Rights Institution added, "Reports with the Commission indicate that there have been thirty-two (32) cases of enforced or involuntary disappearances and six hundred and twenty-seven (627) instances of arrests of protestors. Several others are indicated as being in hiding due to threats on their lives by unknown persons." 

At the same time, the Commission also condemned the unwarranted violence and force that was inflicted on protesters, medical personnel, lawyers and journalists. 

"The Commission also strongly condemns the violent and shocking acts of lawlessness that was exhibited by some of the protestors, we recorded the destruction and burning of critical government infrastructure including a National Library and a County Court in Eldoret, the Governor's Office in Nairobi, and Parliament buildings," said KNCHR. 

Commenting on the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to assist national policing, the Commission said," We wish to reiterate the provisions of Article 238(2)(b) that provides that national security should be pursued in compliance with the law and with the utmost respect for the rule of law, democracy, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. The Commission will be closely monitoring compliance to these Constitutional and statutory obligations."