Raila Odinga, a veteran Kenyan opposition leader, has expressed strong condemnation of what he termed an “unprecedented police violence” witnessed during the recent anti-government and anti-expense protests in the East African country.
Since March, the opposition coalition Azimio has organized nine days of protest against President William Ruto’s policies, at times leading to looting and clashes with the police. Azimio claims that at least 50 people have been killed since March, while official figures put the number at around 20.
At a press conference in Nairobi, Odinga stated that the police and gangs have used lethal force against protesters, resulting in the deaths and injuries of dozens of unarmed individuals. He also highlighted that the violence seemed particularly targeted at the Luos, the ethnic group to which he belongs.
In response, President Ruto defended the actions of the police, stating they must be firm against criminals, gangs, anarchists, and those who seek to cause chaos. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have documented cases of repression by the police, with live ammunition sometimes being used.
The opposition coalition, Azimio, called for “marches and vigils of solidarity for victims of police violence” instead of “peaceful demonstrations.” They urged Kenyans to come out, light candles and lay flowers in memory of the victims.
President Ruto, who was elected in August 2022, is facing increasing opposition and criticism. The protests were triggered by issues related to the cost of living and excessive taxes introduced through a new law in July.
Attempts at dialogue between Ruto and Odinga have been called for by the UN, the Commonwealth Secretariat, and leading Kenyan media. Odinga expressed openness to dialogue, but previous talks collapsed, leading to the resumption of protests in July after the opposition canceled demonstrations scheduled for April and May.