The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Council, led by President Faith Odhiambo, visited Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) to check on the status of victims of police brutality amidst the ongoing protests against the proposed 2024 Finance Bill.
The council was received by the Senior Director for Clinical Services and the Director of Nursing Services, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the situation.
During the visit, the hospital officials shared statistics on the number of patients admitted due to injuries sustained during the protests, the nature of these injuries, and the treatment provided. They also outlined the steps being taken to ensure all victims receive adequate care. The LSK emphasized the importance of collaboration between the hospital management, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the LSK to conduct thorough investigations into the instances of police violence.
President Odhiambo highlighted the need for accountability and justice, stating, “We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensure justice is found for all victims of police misconduct.” The council had the opportunity to interact with some of the patients, many of whom reported being targeted and attacked by the police despite not actively participating in the protests. These accounts underscore the severity of the situation and the indiscriminate nature of the violence.
The LSK’s visit underscores their ongoing commitment to protecting the rights of citizens and ensuring that incidents of police brutality are addressed. By fostering cooperation between various bodies, the LSK aims to bring about substantive investigations and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. This visit is part of a broader effort to advocate for the rule of law and the protection of human rights in Kenya.