Hanifa Sues Police Officers Over Brutality in June 2024 Protests

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has filed a lawsuit against police officers accused of brutality during the June 2024 anti-government protests. The suit, lodged with the High Court, focuses on Sergeant Martin Mbae Kithinji, who allegedly manhandled reporter and activist Hanifa Adan during a peaceful demonstration. Kithinji, reportedly acting outside his official capacity in civilian clothing, is accused of violating Adan’s constitutional rights when he detained her near the Kenya National Archives on June 18, 2024.

The protests, which led to at least 61 deaths according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, were marked by allegations of excessive force, including the use of live ammunition against largely peaceful demonstrators. The LSK's lawsuit condemns these actions and extends beyond Kithinji to implicate several high-ranking police officials, including Nairobi regional police commander Adamson Bungei, Corporal Isiah Ndumba Murangiri, and Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Moses Shikuku. These officials are accused of failing to control their subordinates and permitting non-uniformed officers to partake in the violent suppression.

This legal action by the LSK represents a significant move to hold law enforcement accountable for their actions during the protests, amid growing calls for justice and police reform in Kenya. The LSK's involvement underscores the ongoing push to address police misconduct and ensure that the rights of citizens are protected during demonstrations.