Women human rights defenders in Mombasa have condemned the rising cases of deaths in police custody and alleged enforced disappearances, calling for urgent reforms, justice and accountability within the country’s law enforcement agencies.
The concerns were raised during a press briefing held in solidarity with mothers of victims of custodial deaths, who staged a separate protest in Nairobi to demand justice for their loved ones.
Speaking during the briefing, SHE Rises Executive Director Salma Ahmed, expressed alarm over what she termed as a disturbing trend of young Kenyans dying while in police custody.
She cited widely reported cases, including the deaths of Albert Ojwang and Eric Otieno, saying the incidents had heightened public concern and fear.
Ms Ahmed noted that women stood in solidarity with affected families and demanded that those responsible be held to account.
“We are not happy, and we will not accept our children, whom we have raised and educated, die in the hands of the police,” she said.
Ahmed called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and other independent bodies to carry out thorough investigations into all reported custodial deaths, prosecute culpable officers and strengthen accountability mechanisms within police stations.
She also proposed the installation of CCTV cameras in police cells to enhance transparency and provide verifiable evidence in the event of such incidents.
“We no longer feel safe due to the increasing cases of abductions and killings,” she added.
The activists further appealed to President William Ruto to intervene and ensure the country remains peaceful and secure, particularly as Kenya prepares for the upcoming general election.
“The citizens of Kenya should be able to participate in national affairs without fear for their safety,” said Ahmed.
Emily Juma, an activist with the Amazing Group for persons with disabilities, accused police of unequal treatment, alleging that suspects from poor backgrounds were more likely to suffer abuse while influential individuals often evade accountability.
“We are tired of burying our children. Authorities must uphold the rights and dignity of every Kenyan regardless of their social or economic status,” she said.
Another activist from SHE Rises, Laura Muhati, questioned the safety of detention facilities, emphasizing that individuals in police custody are entitled to protection under the Constitution.
“How safe are police cells? Those arrested are under police protection,” she said.
In solidarity, MUHURI Rapid Response Officer Francis Auma called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite investigations into reported cases and ensure justice is served.
“Kenyans are tired. It is time for Parliament, religious leaders and all stakeholders to address this issue openly. We need accountability and justice for affected families,” Auma said.
By Mary Mtawa and Joan Kinuthia
