Kenyan rights commission probes abuses in protests

The government-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has said it is documenting allegations of human rights violations committed in Monday’s protests by both police and demonstrators.

In a statement, the commission called on the government’s police watchdog to also investigate reports of vandalism, arrests, injuries and use of live fire by police officers.

“Police officers should be able to isolate and arrest violent protesters who are in breach of peace and at the same time protect those who are innocent during the demonstrations,” the KNCHR said.

“The commission further affirms that any human rights violation or abuse in the context of these demonstrations must be investigated promptly, thoroughly and impartially.”

The protests against the high cost of living and alleged electoral malpractices turned violent in several opposition strongholds, including parts of Nairobi and the west of the country.