Gachagua's DCP Party Issues 3 Demands To Gov't After June 25 Demos

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) has condemned the use of excessive force by security agencies during the Wednesday, June 25, demonstrations.

In a statement, DCP Secretary General Hezron Obaga said the shooting of unarmed protestors is a violation of human rights and criminal acts that must be accounted for.

“Even more disturbing is the use of excessive force by security agencies, including the shooting and killing of unarmed demonstrators with live bullets. These are not just violations of human rights — they are criminal acts that must be accounted for,” the statement read in part.

Obaga also slammed the state over the shutdown of media stations by the Communications Authority (CA) over live coverage of the protests.

The DCP SG said the act was a direct assault on the constitutional right to freedom of the press and amounts to state-sponsored censorship.

“Let it be known that no amount of force, censorship, or propaganda will suppress the voice of the people. As a party that believes in the rule of law, human dignity, and democratic freedoms,” Obaga stated.

He demanded an immediate end to police brutality and the unlawful use of live ammunition on peaceful demonstrators.

Obaga also demanded the immediate restoration of all media operations and respect for press freedom as guaranteed under Article 34 of the Constitution.

Further, the DCP SG called for justice for the families who have lost loved ones at the hands of the security agencies.

CA had directed all media stations to stop the live coverage of the protests, claiming that the broadcasts were contrary to the law.

However, the high court issued a conservatory order suspending the directive by authority.

Justice Chacha Mwita ruled that the directive potentially violated the freedom of the media and the Bill of Rights.

"I am satisfied that they raise fundamental constitutional questions touching on potential violation of the Bill of Rights in the Constitution and freedom of the media calling for intervention by this court," the ruling read.

Meanwhile, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) revealed that at least eight people were shot dead and more than 400 others injured during the Wednesday protests.

The deaths were recorded in Machakos (2), Makueni (2), Nakuru (1), Kiambu (1), Uasin Gishu (1), and Nyandarua (1) counties.