Raila condemns police conduct during ‘Nane nane’ demos

By Moses Muli

Published: August 10,2024 11:59 AM

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has called out the police over their conduct during the Nane Nane protests on Thursday.

In a statement, Raila said the actions by the police are unacceptable and a violation of Constitutional rights of the people.

The former Prime Minister said he had been made aware of arbitrary arrests, use of excessive force by police and harassment of journalists and the protesters.

“The right to peaceful assembly, the freedom of expression and the protection of journalists are fundamental pillars of our democracy, pillars that we have fought long and hard to establish and must continue to protect,” Raila said.

He insisted that he stands with the people of Kenya in their quest for justice and realization of their rights.

He called for the immediate release of all arrested during the demos.

Raila also called for investigations into the conduct of police officers involved in the harassment and detention of peaceful protesters.

“I strongly condemn the actions taken by the police yesterday and call upon the relevant authorities to respect the constitutional rights of all Kenyans.”

Raila called for unity as they strive to create a Kenya that respects the rule of law.

“Together, we will continue this struggle, and together, we will achieve the Kenya we all deserve,” he said.

The ODM party had on Friday also called for the release of over 70 persons arrested during the demos.

The party said those arrested included person with disability.

“The majority of them are being held at the Central Police Station in Nairobi. It is worth noting that some of these arrested are persons living with disability (PWDs),” ODM said.

On Thursday, a section of Kenyans took to the streets to protest in a day that was dubbed “Nane Nane”.

During the demos, several people were arrested by the police even as they engaged in running battles.

There was heavy deployment of anti-riot police officers ahead of the demos.

Some were stationed in strategic locations, others are patrolling on foot while others are using trucks.

Nairobi remained the heart of protests as other parts of the country that previously experienced protests remained relatively calm.