Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has reaffirmed the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment to safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Responding to concerns raised by Catholic bishops on Thursday, Mwaura emphasized that the government is highly attentive to the safety and rights of all Kenyans.
He noted that, according to the National Police Service, the June and July 2024 protests resulted in injuries to 495 police officers and 347 civilians, with 42 Kenyans losing their lives.
“We acknowledge these tragic incidents and confirm that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is actively probing any reported disappearances, while the Independent Policing Oversight Authority continues to investigate any potential excesses by the police,” Mwaura said in a statement.
The Catholic bishops expressed deep concern over ongoing reports of abductions, disappearances, torture, and killings of Kenyans, stating,
“We are horrified by these repeated incidents. The increasing murders of women, in particular, have sparked outrage and distress. Many families continue to mourn loved ones who were killed, injured, or went missing following the ‘GenZ demonstrations’ in June 2024,” as noted in a statement signed by Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia, Chair of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops.
In response, Mwaura assured that the government takes these concerns seriously and values the bishops’ engagement in advocating for the welfare of Kenyans.
“We appreciate the bishops’ commitment and recognize the importance of their voice in these matters,” he added.
Additionally, the National Police Service on Thursday reassured the public that security measures have been strengthened nationwide in light of the bishops’ concerns. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja urged Kenyans to work with law enforcement by providing information that could assist in investigations.
“The National Police Service remains fully committed to serving and protecting all Kenyans,” he said in a statement to newsrooms.
