The democratic landscape of any nation is frequently tested during moments of public dissent. In Kenya, the aftermath of the June 25 anti-government protests has triggered a wave of serious concerns, prompting a sharp rebuke from the country's leading legal professional body. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has unequivocally condemned the violence, tragic loss of life, and unprecedented state-imposed media restrictions that marred the anniversary demonstrations, signaling a critical juncture for fundamental rights in the nation.
In a powerful statement released on Thursday, the LSK extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the eight individuals tragically confirmed to have died during the nationwide protests. These demonstrations marked one year since the equally intense anti-Finance Bill protests of 2024, highlighting a recurring pattern of contention and state response. The legal body also lauded those who engaged in peaceful demonstrations, firmly reiterating that peaceful protest is not merely an act of defiance, but a constitutionally protected right, essential to a vibrant democracy. The statement underscored LSK's commitment to supporting all those who suffered injuries, calling for restraint and accountability from every party involved.
A particularly strong point of condemnation from the LSK was directed at Kenya's Communications Authority (CAK). The legal body sharply criticized the CAK for its directive to suspend live television coverage of the protests. This move, which effectively imposed a media blackout, was exacerbated by subsequent reports of raids on media signal transmission facilities in Kiambu and other regions. The LSK declared these actions "unconstitutional and an attack on press freedom."
“We call out the high-handedness and impunity demonstrated by the Communication Authority of Kenya in switching off broadcasting signals of local free-to-air TV stations pursuant to an arbitrary and legally impotent directive to impose a media blackout on the demonstrations," the LSK statement read. "This constitutes a gross violation of the right to access information and the freedom of the press.” The LSK's words underscore their belief that the CAK's actions not only suppressed vital public information but also exhibited a disregard for due legal process.
The Law Society of Kenya also expressed profound concern regarding the consistent and alarming use of excessive force by police during public demonstrations. The LSK noted with grave apprehension that the events of Wednesday, June 25, were no exception to this worrying trend. The legal body reiterated its longstanding concerns about the brutality frequently employed by security forces, particularly in the context of protests demanding government accountability. This persistent pattern raises questions about the adherence of law enforcement to constitutional guidelines governing the use of force.
