
20 June 2024: Following close monitoring by our observation teams verified by other rapid response teams, we release this preliminary report at 6.44 pm
Demonstrations took place across 19 counties. They include Nyeri, Nakuru, Kisumu, Uasin Gishu (Eldoret), Isiolo, Kisii, Laikipia (Nanyuki), Kilifi, Garissa, Kiambu (Thika), Kakamega, Nairobi, Meru, Kericho, Kirinyaga, Mombasa, Embu, Machakos and Migori.
We commend the several thousands of protestors, many of whom are youthful, for picketing peacefully, exhibiting restraint and decorum despite provocation by the police who used tear gas as well as water cannons in the capital.
Many bystanders and business people expressed their solidarity with the protestors by generously sharing water and food and tending to those who required medical assistance throughout the day.
At least 105 persons have been arrested across the country. They include Nairobi (20), Garissa (1), Kisumu (3), Vihiga (4), Narok (4), Uasin Gishu (71), and Nakuru (2).
At least 200 people have been injured in Nairobi. Their injuries range from soft tissue injuries and inhalation of tear gas. 50 have been referred for further specialized treatment. There have been 5 casualties from rubber bullet injuries, police tear gas canisters and batons. 6 people were hit by cars while running away from police officers. There is confirmation of live shootings verified by the presence of spent cartridges.
As night begins to fall, the Law Society of Kenya, Kenya Medical Association, Defenders Coalition, Independent Medical Legal Unit and Amnesty International continue to deploy observers, legal and medical helplines and resources nationwide.
We continue to urge the National Police Service to desist from the use of excessive force, intimidation and arbitrary and unlawful arrests of Kenyans. We advise all protest organizers, protestors, and the public to report incidents, continue using our helplines below, and check our social media platforms for more resources.
To report arrests, injuries and human rights violations, contact
Defenders Coalition 0716200100
Independent Medical Legal Unit 0800721401
Amnesty International 0759464346
Kenya Medical Association 0722275695
Also
Independent Policing Oversight Authority Toll Free 1559
Kenya National Commission on Human Rights 0800720627