LSK Issues Four Tough Demands After Police Brutality During June 17 Protests

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Nairobi, Kenya – June 18, 2025

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has issued a scathing statement condemning police brutality during the June 17 nationwide protests and demanding immediate action and accountability from state institutions.

The protests, which called for justice following the death of Albert Ojwang in police custody, were marred by violent crackdowns. LSK accused the police of not only failing to protect protestors but actively enabling armed gangs to attack civilians. The most shocking incident, according to the society, was the shooting of an unarmed hawker in Nairobi at close range by an armed officer.

LSK demanded that the National Security Council direct the Inspector General, the National Police Service Commission, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to immediately investigate all allegations of police brutality and extrajudicial killings. The society warned that inaction by top security organs had fueled impunity.

The LSK also called on IPOA to publicly disclose all known victims of police brutality and provide updates on investigations carried out over the past year. It criticized what it described as indefinite and inconclusive probes that deny justice to victims and erode public trust.

In addition, the Society urged health institutions, particularly Kenyatta National Hospital, to improve transparency in reporting police brutality cases. It emphasized that while patient confidentiality is important, the public has a right to know the number, condition, and cause of injuries of victims brought in during such incidents.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) was also urged to press strong charges and expedite the prosecution of officers involved in extrajudicial killings. LSK noted that delays in prosecuting rogue officers allow cases to be compromised and deepen mistrust in the justice system.

LSK further stated it would continue offering legal support to arrested protestors and assist in investigations into police misconduct. It emphasized that protecting life and upholding the Constitution must remain the police’s core duties.