KHCHR Rejects Ruto’s Allegations of False Data on Githurai Killings
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has firmly rejected President William Ruto’s recent claims that it disseminated false information regarding the alleged ‘massacre’ in Githurai, Nairobi. This dismissal comes amidst escalating tensions following the violent protests against the Finance Bill on June 25, 2024.
The Controversy
During a press briefing at State House Nairobi on Sunday, President Ruto was questioned about the death toll from the protests, which have sparked significant national concern. While Ruto maintained that the police were responsible for 19 deaths, rights organizations, including KNCHR, have reported higher figures. Ruto specifically accused KNCHR of inaccurately stating that 20 people were killed in Githurai during what was described as a ‘massacre’.
KNCHR’s chairperson, Roseline Odede, responded later that evening, categorically denying the President’s accusations. Odede clarified that the Commission had not issued any statement asserting the number of fatalities in Githurai. She emphasized that KNCHR is still in the process of verifying the events that transpired not only in Githurai but also in other affected areas like Rongai, Migori, and Nakuru.
KNCHR’s Position
According to Odede, as of their latest update on June 26, KNCHR had confirmed 22 deaths related to the protests. This figure has since been updated to 24. KNCHR’s June 26 statement, which was issued after the alleged Githurai incident, did not specify a death toll for that area. Instead, the Commission expressed shock at the reported actions of the police, noting they were investigating reports of indiscriminate shootings in Githurai and the neighboring Jinja area.
“The Commission witnessed with shock as police officers moved into residential areas of Githurai and Jinja in the evening of Tuesday 25th June 2024 and were allegedly involved in indiscriminate shooting of civilians. As a result of this, the Commission has received unverified reports of scores of residents who were killed by stray bullets. We will be investigating this to ensure accountability for these atrocities,” read the KNCHR statement.
The Broader Context
The Finance Bill protests have been a flashpoint for civil unrest, with citizens taking to the streets in various parts of the country. The bill, which has been widely criticized for its perceived unfair tax burdens, has led to significant clashes between protestors and security forces. The Githurai incident is just one of many confrontations that have prompted scrutiny of law enforcement’s response to the civil unrest.
KNCHR’s Role
As the state-funded human rights watchdog, KNCHR’s mandate is to monitor and report on human rights violations. The Commission’s role in documenting and investigating incidents like the alleged Githurai killings is crucial in holding authorities accountable and ensuring that justice is served. Odede’s statements underscore KNCHR’s commitment to thorough and accurate reporting, as well as their ongoing investigations into the protest-related deaths.
Conclusion
The exchange between President Ruto and KNCHR highlights the intense scrutiny and differing narratives surrounding the government’s response to the Finance Bill protests. While Ruto’s administration asserts a lower casualty figure, rights groups like KNCHR continue to report higher numbers and call for detailed investigations into incidents like those alleged in Githurai. As KNCHR proceeds with its inquiries, the nation watches closely, demanding transparency and accountability in these challenging times.