The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kenya has strongly condemned the excessive use of force by police during protests, that unfolded on July 7 Saba Saba Day, June 25 mass Gen Z-led protests, and June 18,Justice for Mwalimu Albert Ojwang protests.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 9 FIDA confirmed that at least 50 people lost their lives from the tree protests, the latest casualty being 12-year-old Bridget Wainaina, who was hit by a stray bullet on Monday, July 7 while inside her family compound.

They condemned the killings, saying that no parent deserves to bury their child for fighting for their future.

“We offer our deepest condolences to the loved ones, families and friends of those who lost their lives. No parent should have to bury a child for standing up for their future. No citizen should pay for a peaceful protest with their blood. We stand in solidarity with all victims and survivors. We wish the injured a speedy recovery,” a part of the statement read.

FIDA expressed their concern over the psychological impact on children and families who were exposed to the brutality, stating that women and girls were mostly affected with some reportedly sexually assaulted, tear-gassed in homes, or traumatised by violence during the June 25 protests.

The federation expressed outrage over disturbing reports and viral footage showing armed police, including officers in plain clothes, firing live bullets at unarmed protesters and storming private homes and condemned the violation of private spaces and the use of excessive force during demonstrations.

“The whole country has seen viral video footage of armed police officers, some in plain clothes and special weapons, shooting live bullets into crowds of unarmed protesters and following them into their houses. We have seen social media videos of bullet fragments that found their way into people’s homes, violating the sanctity and safety of private spaces.”

Additionally, raised alarm over viral videos showing gang-like groups attacking citizens with crude weapons in full view of police. One such incident occurred on Sunday, July 6, when armed groups stormed a press conference at the Kenya Human Rights Commission, terrorising women, journalists, and staff.

Following the incidences, FIDA demanded accountability from police IG Douglas Kanja, on the officers who fired at protesters, invaded homes or colluded with criminal gangs.

They demanded a, independent investigation into all reported cases of police brutality, abductions, and sexual violence, including rape and harassment, and offer protection and justice to the victims.

They asked that increased and heightened security measures be put in place during protests in all medical facilities nationwide, which respond to the injured while continuing to provide routine medical services to the public during the protest period.

IPOA has been asked to expedite investigations into police conduct during the protests and release comprehensive reports to the public, including details of legal and disciplinary actions taken against those found to be responsible for the police’s excesses.

FIDA urged President William Ruto to be in the front line in initiating a process of justice, reform, and healing in the Nation.

“As the Head of State, His Excellency President William Ruto must lead from the front. It is clear that the country is hurting, and we urge the president to acknowledge the people’s pain and initiate a process of justice, reform, and healing. The growing rift between citizens and law enforcement is a serious concern. If not urgently addressed, this rift could tear apart the social fabric of our nation,” they said.

FIDA-Kenya has emphasized that the country must not regress or allow fear to undermine its democracy. The organization reaffirmed its support for calls demanding justice and accountability in the wake of recent unrest.

In response to the ongoing crisis, FIDA-Kenya has activated a Response Centre to provide legal aid and psychosocial support, including trauma care, to both women and men affected during the protests, and encouraged victims to report the cases.