Recent protests across Kenya have ignited widespread condemnation over alleged police brutality and misconduct, with various local and international entities demanding immediate action and accountability. The demonstrations, primarily focused on demanding justice for deceased blogger Albert Ojwang and the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, have been met with an alarming use of force against unarmed civilians.

The British High Commission, in a statement on June 18, expressed deep disturbance by the violence against peaceful protesters and unarmed civilians, urging a swift, independent, and transparent investigation into the actions of the police. They emphasized that police forces must always command the trust and confidence of those they are duty-bound to serve and protect. This sentiment was echoed by the Kenyan Judiciary, which, through its spokesperson Paul Ndemo, condemned the rising incidents of unjustified police brutality and the disturbing trend of peaceful protests being infiltrated by goons who disrupt assemblies and endanger lives. Chief Justice Martha Koome reiterated the Judiciary's commitment to upholding justice in matters of police brutality and misconduct, assuring fair, impartial, and timely handling of such cases, explaining that the Office of the Judiciary Spokesperson was created to communicate without compromising ongoing legal proceedings.

Several tragic incidents have underscored the severity of the situation. The death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody at Nairobi Central Station has been a central point of the protests, leading to widespread public uproar and demands for reforms. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is investigating Ojwang's death, with DIG Eliud Lagat summoned for interrogation, following allegations that he, along with OCS Samson Talaam, gave orders leading to Ojwang's assault, as confessed by Constable James Mukhwana.

Another harrowing incident involved Boniface Kariuki, a 22-year-old hawker, who was shot at close range in the head by an anti-riot police officer at Moi Avenue in Nairobi CBD. Widely shared footage showed two officers assaulting Kariuki before one shot him. He is currently recuperating at Kenyatta National Hospital after successful surgery. In response to this, Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirmed the interdiction of Constables Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Duncan Kiprono, who are now being processed by the Homicide team at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations Headquarters. The National Police Service expressed deep regret for this unjustified act, promising justice.

Further cases of police brutality have been reported across the country. Philip Okech, a Kenyatta University student, was shot in the neck during protests in Nairobi and, while recovering, urged President William Ruto to rein in the National Police Service for going against their oath to protect citizens. Governor Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay vehemently condemned the rising wave of police brutality and extrajudicial killings, citing the deaths of Albert Ojwang and Calvins Omondi Onditi (who allegedly died by suicide in custody at Kipasi Police Post), and assaults on Philip Okech, Boniface Kariuki, and Gabriel Mwita Chacha (who sustained life-threatening injuries from a police beating on Ringiti Island). Wanga demanded the swift prosecution of all involved officers, including those in command, and reaffirmed that extrajudicial killings are outlawed under the ODM-UDA 10-point agenda.

Condemnations also came from former high-ranking officials. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused the government of abandoning its mandate to protect citizens, questioning police training and condemning the shooting of Kariuki and Ojwang's death. Former Chief Justice David Maraga denounced what he called 'state-sponsored anarchy', noting the deployment of 'rogue security operatives' and 'state-supported and sponsored militias' on motorbikes attacking unarmed civilians in coordination with security forces. KANU Chairman Gideon Moi called for the arrest and prosecution of the officer who shot Kariuki, describing it as a 'cold-blooded shooting' and a 'shocking abuse of power'. Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah viewed the use of force as a tactic to intimidate the public, urging Kenyans not to be deterred from demanding liberation. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported at least 22 injuries during protests in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Kwale, highlighting the massive deployment of masked, hired goons in Nairobi who patrolled streets and brutalized protesters, often alongside police vehicles.

The collective voices from human rights bodies, political figures, and international commissions underscore a critical demand for accountability and an end to police impunity, as citizens continue to brave intimidation to demand justice and adherence to constitutional rights.