KNCHR Demands Accountability by Police IG & Other Senior Officers Over Killings & Abductions

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho during a media briefing on July 23, 2024.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho during a media briefing on July 23, 2024.
Photo
National Police Service

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has called for accountability by the National Police Service (NPS) following a surge in cases of murder and abductions.

In a statement issued by the commission on October 31, KNCHR emphasized that the Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and other senior police officers be held accountable for the menace.

According to the lobby group, several reports flagged the police service for contravening the constitution for allegedly getting involved in the violation of human rights. 

“Kenya is witnessing an unprecedented wave of abductions and killings targeting various individuals. KNCHR expresses deep concern over the alarming rise in abductions, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings across the country,” the commission highlighted.

Police Kanja
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja(right) hands over Kenyan flag to Kenya Police Officers leaving for South Sudan.
NPS

“Kenya's National Police Service, specifically, has been flagged in multiple reports for its involvement in these grave violations. The Inspector General and other top police officials must be held accountable and transparently address these issues to restore public trust in law enforcement agencies,” KNCHR added.

While calling for action, the Commission reiterated that the abductions and disappearances violated personal liberty and security, as enshrined in Articles 29 and 30 of the Constitution and that it led to constant fear among citizens.

The commission further argued that the menace which mainly targets human rights defenders and activists contravened civic participation and weakened public confidence in State institutions. 

“This environment curtails the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as outlined in Articles 33 and 37 of the Constitution,” KNCHR noted.

In its statement, the commission called on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to work closely with the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) and KNCHR to fast-track cases where state officials were implicated in murder cases or abductions.

KNCHR also urged President William Ruto’s administration to consider implementing police reforms, including better training on human rights standards and non-violent policing methods. 

The commission further proposed the establishment of a fund to provide compensation and support to families of victims of enforced disappearances, abductions and extrajudicial killings. 

"The Government must address the financial and psychological needs of these families, who often face severe hardships due to the loss of a loved one," KNCHR stated.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho during a media briefing on July 23, 2024.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho during a media briefing on July 23, 2024.
Photo
National Police Service
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