The Azimio coalition on Friday, July 28, announced it had kickstarted the process of gathering evidence with the intention of instituting judicial action against police officers accused of brutalising demonstrators during anti-government protests.
Led by Rarieda member of parliament, Otiende Amollo and Homabay Town MP, Opondo Kaluma, the opposition leaders said they had put together an experienced and competent legal team to gather evidence of what they termed as excessive use of force by the security agencies.
Speaking during a service organised to honour the victims, the legislators said that their team of lawyers is currently piecing together evidence to build a bulletproof case.
After making this revelation, the legislators proceeded to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital where they interacted with the victims and their families.
Moreover, some of the leaders contributed some money to help the victims offset their medical bills and buy basic household items.
Back in Nairobi, Azimio Principals led by Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka led a memorial service in honour of those who lost their lives during the protests. The two leaders were joined by Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta. The service was held at the Stephen Kalonzo Command Centre in Karen.
In his speech former Vice president Kalonzo Musyoka regretted the brutality meted on protestors and revealed the coalition would proceed with plans to seek justice for the victims.
"We stand with those who lost their lives. The people we lost did not have to die. Those who were hurt did not have to suffer that fate. All they were asking was lowering of cost of basic commodities. Those who were hurt had no capacity to overthrow the government. They just lacked basics." Kalonzo said.
The Wiper Party leader also praised police officers across the country who expressed restraint during the demonstrations.
“They may not be in the majority but we still laud them. As we strive to make sense of the senseless tragedies we need to ask ourselves, is Article 37 just mere words of no relevance? Has Kenya Kwanza indeed suspended the constitution?”
Azimio had previously appealed to all Kenyans to maintain peace during the nationwide prayers and encouraged more Kenyans to come out in large numbers to honour police brutality victims.
"We take this early opportunity to thank all those who turned out yesterday to keep vigil, light candles and lay flowers in honour of those who lost their lives and the injured. This exercise continues through the weekend," Azimio stated at the time.
