The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights(KNCHR) has raised concern over widespread violence, deaths, and destruction witnessed during yesterday’s Transport Sector Fuel Strike, warning that the unrest has resulted in serious human rights violations across the country.
KNCHR said it had received reports of at least four fatalities, multiple injuries, arrests, incidents of looting, arson attacks, and destruction of property of unknown value in several regions.
The protests also led to widespread school closures, disrupting learning for many children and vulnerable groups.
Escalation of the Strike Into Violence
According to KNCHR, the strike initially began peacefully in the early hours of the morning before escalating into violent demonstrations marked by road barricades, burning tyres, bonfires, and attacks on motorists and members of the public by criminal gangs.
The Commission noted that such actions undermine public order and infringe on the rights of other citizens, including the rights to security, dignity, property, and freedom of movement.
Police Response and Allegations of Excessive Force
At the same time, KNCHR acknowledged efforts by the police to restore calm in affected areas.
However, it expressed concern over allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers, including the reported use of lethal force that allegedly resulted in deaths and gunshot injuries.
The Commission reminded security agencies that any use of force must comply with constitutional principles of legality, necessity, proportionality, accountability, and respect for human dignity and the right to life.
KNCHR further emphasized that the rights to strike, protest, and demonstrate are protected under Articles 37 and 41 of the Constitution of Kenya, but stressed that such freedoms must be exercised peacefully and responsibly.
“Legitimate industrial action or public demonstrations should not be used as a platform for violence, criminality, looting, or attacks against innocent civilians,” the statement read.
Calls for Investigations and Accountability
The Commission has now called for immediate investigations into all reported cases of violence and destruction witnessed during the protests.
It urged authorities to arrest and prosecute individuals responsible for attacks, looting, and violations of the rights of others.
Additionally, the National Police Service was urged to exercise maximum restraint and ensure that any use of force remains lawful and proportionate, with lethal force used only as a last resort under both national and international human rights standards.
KNCHR also conveyed condolences to families who lost loved ones during the unrest and wished those injured a quick recovery.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting human rights while calling on all stakeholders to uphold peace, dialogue, accountability, and the rule of law.
