President William Ruto is facing increasing pressure to personally step in and lead a national dialogue focused on justice and reform, following a surge in deaths and reported abuses tied to the ongoing anti-government protests.
On Wednesday, July 9, the Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA) urged the President to listen to the people’s concerns and take immediate action.
The group warned that if the widening gap between law enforcement and the public is not urgently bridged, it could push the country further into unrest.
“The pain and frustration in the country are undeniable,” FIDA stated. “The growing mistrust between citizens and police is deeply worrying. If not addressed promptly, it could severely damage the unity and stability of our society.”
FIDA called on President Ruto to take leadership and demonstrate accountability, especially in light of growing public anger over allegations of police brutality. They emphasized the importance of upholding Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees every Kenyan the right to hold peaceful protests.
The group condemned the authorities for the violence witnessed on Monday, particularly highlighting the tragic death of a 12-year-old child who was reportedly killed by a stray bullet inside their family home.
The federation also held Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja accountable, urging him to take full responsibility for the violence and lives lost during the Saba Saba Day protests on July 7.
Backed by evidence from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and its own investigations, FIDA further alleged that there were credible reports of women being sexually assaulted during the protests.
The organisation believes these acts were intended to intimidate women and discourage them from taking part in peaceful demonstrations.
FIDA demanded that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) speed up its investigations into the police’s actions during the protests and release detailed findings to the public.
This includes naming the officers found responsible and outlining the legal and disciplinary steps taken against them.
Another critical concern raised by the women lawyers was the safety of medical institutions during protest periods. They called for stronger security measures in all hospitals across the country, especially those treating protest-related injuries.
This came after a disturbing incident on Monday where attackers reportedly stormed Kitengela Hospital, threatening the safety of both patients and healthcare workers.
“We call on the government to ensure that all medical facilities remain secure during protests,” FIDA said. “These hospitals must be protected so they can continue treating the injured and offering essential health services to all citizens during such tense periods.”
Meanwhile, President Ruto finally addressed the nation’s unrest on Wednesday with a firm warning. Speaking during the launch of the Police Housing Project at Kilimani Police Station in Nairobi, he condemned what he described as growing lawlessness during the protests.
The President made it clear that the government would no longer tolerate violent demonstrations.
He also gave a controversial directive to the police, urging them to act with restraint but to use force when necessary, specifically suggesting that officers should shoot violent protesters in the legs rather than use lethal force indiscriminately.
Ruto’s remarks have sparked even more debate, with critics questioning whether such comments promote responsible policing or further inflame the situation.
As calls for justice, accountability, and reform continue to grow louder, the ball is now in the President’s court to steer the country toward healing and unity.
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