Government Initiates Training for Police on Non-Lethal Crowd Control
The government has taken significant steps to address concerns regarding the use of force by police during public demonstrations. A key initiative involves training police officers in the use of non-lethal methods to manage crowds effectively, with the aim of reducing incidents of violence and brutality.
During a recent appearance before the Senate, the Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS), Kipchumba Murkomen, highlighted the importance of this training. He stated that the program is designed to ensure that police can maintain public order while upholding human rights and minimizing harm to individuals involved in protests.
“The government has made significant steps in enhancing its capacity to manage public demonstrations in a manner that upholds human rights and minimises harm,” Murkomen said. “Officers have undergone comprehensive training focused on the use of non-lethal methods in crowd control management.”
This training aims to equip officers with the necessary skills to handle large gatherings without resorting to lethal force. The goal is to protect the safety and dignity of all individuals, including demonstrators and law enforcement personnel.
Impact of Recent Protests
Recent demonstrations, which were triggered by the controversial passage of the Finance Bill, 2024, resulted in significant loss of life and property damage. Human rights defenders reported that over 60 people were killed by police during these events. In addition, public and private properties worth millions of shillings were destroyed.
The government has also invested in acquiring modern, non-lethal anti-riot equipment that meets internationally accepted standards. This equipment is specifically designed to control crowds without causing injury or health effects to demonstrators.
Communication and Accountability
To further improve the management of protests, officers have been directed to conduct pre-engagement protocols with demonstration organizers as outlined in the Public Order Act. These engagements are intended to establish clear communication regarding expectations, designated routes, and the responsibilities of all parties involved.
All commanders are reminded to inform organizers of their responsibility to maintain order within their ranks. Organizers will be held accountable for any acts of commission or omission during the demonstrations.
Despite these efforts, the government reported that 42 people were killed and 347 others injured across 16 counties during the Gen Z protests. Nairobi accounted for 233 of the injuries, with other regions reporting varying numbers of casualties.
Property damage was also widespread, with several business premises broken into and looted. While the economic loss from the protests is estimated to run into millions of shillings, the National Police Service lacks accurate data on the exact inventory and value of property that was looted, damaged, or lost due to unreported cases.
Addressing Infiltration by Criminal Elements
According to the CS, while the protests were initially meant to be peaceful, they were infiltrated by “criminal gangs” who engaged in looting, destruction, and breaches of vital government installations. As a result, a total of 791 individuals were arrested across the country in connection with the protests.
These measures reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring that future demonstrations are managed safely and responsibly. By focusing on non-lethal force, improved communication, and accountability, authorities aim to prevent further violence and protect the rights of all citizens.