Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Kenya on Saturday condemned the excessive use of force by the police during the recent wave of anti-government protests in the country. The CSOs called for government accountability in law enforcement and the budget-making process. In a joint statement, the CSOs denied allegations by the Kenyan authorities of funding the recent protests that were infiltrated by goons who looted shops and destroyed goods.

Jointly signed by 38 organizations, the statement claimed that the government’s accusations against them of funding and supporting unlawful behaviors and unruly protests were incorrect which “undermined the invaluable work they do to strengthen [Kenyans’] society.” The statement clarified that CSOs’ funds provide legal aid for the arrested or abducted Kenyans, and medical and psychological assistance for individuals affected by the recent protests.

The CSOs pride themselves in achieving a milestone in the political development of Kenya and the discrediting statements by the president would misconstrue their achievements as acts of anarchy. This has also come with increased intimidation and threats to journalists and the media fraternity.

The CSOs also stated that the protests resulted from the oppression that Kenyans have experienced and thus invalidating the public outburst would contravene the provisions of chapter four of the constitution.

CSOs reaffirmed their commitment and called upon the government to recognize the role they play, asking that they be allowed to operate without undue influence or baseless accusations.

In recent weeks, Kenya has experienced a series of demonstrations that kicked off when the finance bill had been tabled before parliament for consideration. Despite the withdrawal of the highly contested bill, Kenyans still took it to the streets, demanding government accountability and the dismissal of corrupt cabinet secretaries. The president therefore dismissed his cabinet due to the ongoing pressure from the general public.

However, during the protests, incidents of police brutality and a series of abductions were witnessed. Additionally, the enforced disappearances were blamed on the police and CSOs condemned the same. According to the Kenya National Commission of Human Rights KNCHR as of Tuesday, 16th July 2024, 50 people had been reported dead and 413 were injured with over 680 cases of arbitrary arrests and forced disappearances.