In spite of a top rights organization calling their response to recent opposition protests “an act of terrorism,” Kenyan President William Ruto hailed the police for maintaining order.
Several people have died throughout the four months of protests, including 10 who were shot dead by police last week. Six individuals were reportedly killed on Wednesday after battles with the police, according to local media.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), which is an NGO, said there was “a troubling pattern to show that [the] police’s actions and use of lethal force were premeditated”.
But Mr Ruto characterised the response as the police protecting people and property.
“I congratulate the police for standing firm, for ensuring peace prevails and ensuring that all criminals are dealt with,” Mr Ruto said.
The official death toll has not been released, but according to Amnesty International, at least 30 people have been killed by the police since the start of the anti-government protests in March.
A member of a civil society network that monitors the police’s response to protesters in Kisumu and Migori, two western counties, reported that security forces appear to be under a “shoot-to-kill order.”
This anonymous activist revealed having photographic evidence showing individuals shot in the back with live ammunition.
“Last week on Wednesday, one police officer refused to follow the order to shoot at protesters and was beaten up by his colleagues and was hospitalised,” the person added.
The opposition has called a series of rallies against the introduction of new taxes and the rising cost of living. Currently the country is experiencing the second day of a three-day protest.
Local and international groups and foreign diplomats have expressed deep concerns over the situation in Kenya and are urging both sides to seek a negotiated solution.