Nairobi, Kenya – (African Boulevard News) – Opposition leaders in Kenya held a somber vigil on Wednesday evening to honor the victims of police violence in the country. The event, organized by the National Super Alliance (NASA), aimed to highlight the ongoing issue of extrajudicial killings and demand justice for those affected.
The vigil, held at the Freedom Corner in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park, saw a large crowd gather to pay their respects. People held candles and signs that read “Stop police brutality” and “No more killings.” Opposition leader Raila Odinga addressed the crowd, expressing his sorrow for the lives lost and calling for action.
“We will pursue justice locally and internationally for these injured and slain heroes. These people who have been shot in cold blood and in cold July are heroes and patriots. All they were asking for was a fair and just society,” Odinga stated.
The opposition leader also criticized the government for its failure to address the issue of police brutality. He called for an independent investigation into the recent incidents, and for the officers responsible to be held accountable.
“We cannot allow our police force, whose primary duty is to protect and serve the people, to become the very same perpetrators of violence. We demand justice for the victims and their families,” Odinga declared.
The vigil comes in the wake of several incidents of police violence in the country. Last week, a video went viral showing a police officer assaulting a matatu (public minibus) driver in Nairobi. The incident sparked outrage and led to calls for action against police brutality.
Human rights organizations have long criticized the Kenyan government for its handling of police violence cases. Amnesty International has documented numerous cases of extrajudicial killings and excessive use of force by the police.
“The lack of accountability for police violence in Kenya is deeply concerning. The government must take immediate action to address this issue and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights,” said David Griffiths, Director of AI’s Africa Office.
The vigil serves as a reminder that the fight against police violence is far from over. Kenyans are demanding justice for the victims and an end to the culture of impunity that allows officers to operate above the law.
As the opposition leaders and activists continue to push for justice, it remains to be seen whether the government will take concrete steps to address the issue and hold those responsible accountable. One thing is clear: the voices of the victims and their families will not be silenced. The fight for justice will continue until every Kenyan can feel safe and protected by the very institutions meant to serve them.
