President William Ruto has directed the criminal justice agencies to release all Kenyans who were innocently arrested during the anti-government protests.
Speaking on Wednesday, July 24 at State House Nairobi, Ruto also directed that the charges pressed against the protestors be dropped.
“There have been many instances of excessive, unlawful, dangerous, and harmful conduct during the demonstrations and engagements as a consequence of which many persons have been arrested and charged in court with various offences.
“I urge the criminal justice agencies to take effective measures and ensure that people who may have been innocently caught up on the wrong side of proceedings, and those not implicated in crimes are released and the charges against them withdrawn,” said President Ruto.
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The Head of State went on to say the release of the innocently arrested protestors would enable the security agencies to focus their resources, efforts, and time on investigating and prosecuting suspects who took advantage of the demonstrations to advance a dangerous agenda.
At the same time, Ruto called on the National Police Service (NPS) to use its mandate responsibly, professionally, effectively, and in full compliance with the Constitution.
“All breaches and violations by police officers must be handled expeditiously through due process, with a view to giving Kenyans a police service that upholds the highest standards of integrity,” said Ruto.
Further, he directed relevant ministers to obtain, verify, and provide accurate data on Kenyans who lost their livelihoods and property during the anti-government protests within 30 days to facilitate appropriate government action.