In a strong-worded statement issued on July 11, 2025, former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga has denounced any orders given to police to shoot, maim, disorient, or use excessive force against civilians.
Odinga warned that such militarized approaches to policing undermine the Rule of Law and violate the rights and dignity of citizens. “We must at all times opt for the Rule of Law and due process,” the statement read, adding that police must not be given “illegitimate and deadly powers” even when suspects are believed to have broken the law.
The statement emphasizes that suspects must be treated as innocent until proven guilty by a competent court, and that arrests and arraignments should always be prioritized over acts of violence by law enforcement.
“This preserves the dignity and respects the human rights of suspects while at the same time confers credibility to the actions of the State,” he said.
Odinga urged the country to reject any move toward a militarized police force, pointing to examples from across Africa where such tactics have led to escalated violence and instability.
“A militarized approach to policing endangers both the suspect and the law enforcement officers,” he cautioned.
The remarks come amid ongoing protests and mounting public concern over alleged police brutality, with the opposition leader calling for restraint, accountability, and a recommitment to constitutional policing.
