Amnesty International Demands KDF Report on June 2024 Protests
Amnesty International is asking the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to release a detailed report about their involvement during the Gen Z protests that happened in June 2024.
Speaking on April 29, Amnesty Kenya’s Executive Director Irũngũ Houghton emphasized the need for the military to clearly explain how it handled the protests, including the steps taken by security officers during the operations.
This request came as Amnesty launched its 2024/2025 Human Rights Report. The organization believes that a transparent report from the military would help rebuild public confidence in Kenya’s security forces.
Amnesty also urged the police and military to disclose any disciplinary steps taken against officers accused of killing protestors. They asked the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to update the public on investigations and prosecutions linked to the June 25 protests.
The report revealed that at least 65 people were killed, 89 went missing, and thousands were detained without cause during the demonstrations. Amnesty also highlighted how online critics were targeted through threats, arrests, and social media account shutdowns, creating fear among those speaking out.
Houghton also referred to BBC Africa’s recent “Blood Parliament” documentary, which exposed the use of unnecessary force during the protests.
Additionally, Amnesty criticized President Ruto’s government for not addressing the growing number of femicide cases. The report stated that 170 women were killed in 2024, nearly double the number recorded in 2023.
Amnesty called on the Taskforce on Gender-Based Violence and the Ministry of Gender to act swiftly and recommend strong actions to prevent and punish such crimes.
By Kenyans