By Eddah Waithaka
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called for immediate accountability over the brutal killings of unarmed civilians by security officers during last year’s protests.
In a strongly worded statement, LSK President Faith Odhiambo condemned the extrajudicial executions and demanded urgent investigations into historical violations by state security organs.
The BBC Africa Eye exposé, aired on April 27, 2025, revealed shocking footage of police executing young protesters during anti-government demonstrations.
The report has sparked nationwide outrage, with Kenyans demanding justice for the victims.
LSK Accuses IPOA of Delays, Inaction
The LSK criticized the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for its sluggish progress in addressing police brutality cases.
Despite receiving 60 complaints related to last year’s protests, IPOA has only completed six investigations, a delay the LSK termed ‘dereliction of duty.
“Laxity and complacency in such matters amount to complicity,” the statement read. “IPOA has exhausted public patience and risks liability for failing its mandate.”
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has outlined four key demands aimed at addressing past injustices and ensuring accountability.
First, the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) must prioritize expedited investigations into the mass killings that occurred during last year’s protests and resolve all pending cases swiftly.
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Second, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) should order the Inspector General of Police to investigate and sanction officers who were caught on camera using excessive force or executing civilians.
Third, the National Security Council must mandate all investigative agencies to conduct a full historical audit to uncover the extent of past extrajudicial killings, identify the perpetrators, and ensure legal action is taken against them.
Finally, the government is called upon to publicly disclose all past investigation reports related to extrajudicial killings and provide state protection for witnesses and victims to facilitate prosecutions.
The LSK emphasized that security organs owe allegiance to the Constitution, not political leaders.
“The police must protect life, not take it. Extrajudicial killings are not just crimes; they are a direct attack on Kenya’s democracy,” the statement declared.
LSK urged all Kenyans, civil society, and state agencies to unite against impunityand ensure justice prevails.
“The right to life is sacred. Those who violate it must face the full force of the law,” said Faith Odhiambo, President, Law Society of Kenya.
The BBC exposé has reignited demands for systemic reforms in Kenya’s security sector.
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