The Law Society of Kenya (LSK), along with a section of human rights organizations, has condemned the use of tear gas against anti-femicide protestors and the subsequent arrest of the demonstrators in Nairobi.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, December 10, with Amnesty International, Human is My ID Alliance, and the End Femicide KE Movement, LSK called for the immediate release of all protestors without any charges.
The society further demanded that the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, initiate an independent investigation into violence and unlawful arrests.
LSK noted that law enforcement agencies must respect Kenyans' constitutional rights even as it called for an expedition of investigations into femicide incidents.
"This protest was a courageous stand against the killing of women, a demand for urgency in investigating these murders, and a call for perpetrators to be held accountable. The violent response by police, including the arrest of these peaceful protestors, is a direct attack on Kenya's democratic principles and the human rights of its citizens.
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"The excessive force and unwarranted arrests not only violate national and international human rights laws but also send a chilling message to all those advocating for justice and accountability," read part of the statement.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo claimed that the violent response by the police to Kenyans exercising their constitutional rights has become habitual.
"There is absolutely no justification for attacking, arresting, and interfering with harmless Kenyans agitating for the protection of women, especially when the threat of violence against women is, ostensibly, a national crisis. The police must refocus their energy on ending and fighting atrocities, not perpetuating them," Odhiambo stated.
On November 20, President William Ruto announced a 16-day anti-femicide campaign dubbed 'Safe Home, Safe Space campaign,' which began on Monday, November 25.
The president said the campaign would be led by women leaders in government institutions who would raise awareness of the signs of gender-based violence (GBV) while informing the public of the safe spaces and avenues where they can get help.
