Kenya’s Chief Justice Breaks Silence On Police Violence, Condemns Property Destruction
Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged the police to strictly adhere to human rights norms when dealing with protesting Kenyans.
Koome, speaking on Tuesday morning during the swearing-in of members of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), advised law enforcement officers to avoid actions that could result in unnecessary loss of life.
According to her, it was the police’s obligation to distinguish between peaceful demonstrators and criminals who infiltrate protests to foment violence and steal property.
“The police must respond with restraint, proportionality and in strict adherence to the law and avoid actions that could cause unnecessary harm or loss of lives,” Koome said.
She went on to add, “The police must distinguish between peaceful demonstrators and criminal elements and apprehend and process such individuals through the justice system.”
In recent times, our country and our democratic fabric have come under strain through waves of public protests. These moments have reminded us of the delicate balance that must be maintained between the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protests and the imperative of… pic.twitter.com/z7JtgCEWXB
— The Judiciary Kenya (@Kenyajudiciary) July 8, 2025
She noticed that the country had just experienced a wave of public protests, which she described as a delicate balance between the right to peaceful assembly and professional policing.
During her statement, the Chief Justice also urged demonstrators to exercise their right to demonstrate peacefully, without using weapons, harming property, or looting businesses.
“Members of the public must exercise their right to protest peacefully without engaging in acts of destruction, looting, or vandalism of public infrastructure such as government buildings and court infrastructure,” she reiterated.
Koome’s statement comes just hours after thousands of Kenyans marched throughout the country to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Saba Saba Day protests on July 7, 1990.
What was supposed to be peaceful processions among many Kenyans suddenly devolved into violent demonstrations after Kenyans began a fight with police, resulting in property destruction and widespread looting.
ALSO READ:
- Skydiving Plane Crash Lands In Diani, Company Confirms
- “This Is What Happened!” – Orengo Reveals Events Leading To Chaos At MP Nyikal’s Father’s Burial
- Nigeria’s Tinubu To Visit Kenya Weeks After Viral Fuel Shortage Comparison Remarks
- CS Murkomen Confirms Kamariny Stadium Will Host 2026 Mashujaa Day
- Gov’t Rushes To Tie Loose Ends In Dr. Obwaka’s Death, Arrests ‘Suspect’
According to a report from the National Police Service (NPS), at least 11 individuals were killed in yesterday’s protests, while up to 52 officers were injured.
In a press release issued Monday evening, Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga reported that 11 civilians were hurt, and 12 police vehicles were destroyed.
In addition, three government vehicles and four private Kenyan vehicles were damaged or destroyed.
The police report also stated that 567 persons were arrested.
Kenya’s Chief Justice Breaks Silence On Police Violence, Condemns Property Destruction
