The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) issued a stern letter to Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli, urging him to halt the deployment of civilian police officers during the Nane Nane protests. LSK President Faith Odhiambo disclosed plans by the National Police Service (NPS) to deploy officers in balaclavas, which raised concerns over accountability and transparency. Odhiambo emphasized the need for officers to wear uniforms, use marked vehicles, and adhere to legal registration to prevent crime and ensure justice.
The LSK’s letter condemned the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters and called for operations to comply with the principles of necessity and proportionality. The society highlighted incidents of abductions and the unlawful use of tear gas and high-velocity water cannons against civilians, including women and children. Additionally, the harassment of Social Justice Center leaders through arbitrary arrests and intimidation tactics was strongly criticized.
The Nane Nane protests saw heightened security measures in Nairobi, with police setting up roadblocks and patrolling key areas. The normally busy Thika Road was unusually quiet, and many businesses in the central business district remained closed. Anti-riot police maintained a heavy presence, particularly around Kenyatta Avenue and Kimathi Street, known hotspots for clashes between police and demonstrators.
[presto_player id=1850]