Kenya national Human Rights commision now says The National Police Service is mandated to maintain law and order while observing and respecting constitutional provisions.
KNHCR Chair Roseline Odede said Breaking into homes and affecting improper arrest as seen in Kisumu and other places while dispensing brutality and torture, infringes upon the rights of citizens and violates the dignity and sanctity of their private spaces.
“The Commission has received reports of torture and abuse, wanton beating of persons even after surrender, indiscriminate tear-gassing of residences and schools,” Odede said.
“There have been heart-rending images on mainstream media and social media platforms, clearly showing the involvement of uniformed police officers in the wanton and brutal attack of defenseless members of the public.”
“The Commission within its mandate in the Prevention of Torture Act shall initiate inquiries into the alleged instances of torture and issue report and recommend effective measures for prevention and accountability,” she said.
Odede urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to hasten its investigations into the allegations of torture and ensure perpetrators face appropriate legal consequences.
She has condemned the recent cases of security agents violently dispersing citizens and journalists within court premises saying it violates the principles of separation of powers and undermines the rule of law.
The commission has urged the gov’t to ensure the protection of the judicial spaces and uphold the independence of the judiciary.