The Law Society of Kenya has condemned the excessive use of force by police and vandalism witnessed during the 17th June 2025 protests.
In a statement, LSK raised alarm over the shooting of unarmed civilian Boniface Kariuki, who was reportedly selling masks in Nairobi CBD near Imenti House.
LSK said that their attention had been drawn to a video circulating in which a uniformed police officer was caught in the full glare of cameras opening fire on an unarmed mask vendor, resulting in serious injuries.
“Kenyans of goodwill exercised their constitutionally protected right to demonstrate, as guaranteed under Article 37 of the Kenyan Constitution in pursuit of police accountability following the gruesome and senseless murder of Mr Ojwang’s murder by the police,” LSK reiterated.
The Society also emphasized that the constitution guarantees the freedom of citizens to demonstrate and assemble, and also present petitions in an unarmed manner.
LSK further added that the integrity of the rightful protest was further compromised by rungu-wielding goons who seemed to enjoy the protection of the police in terrorizing innocent Kenyans.
“This is a heinous crime and affront to the constitution that warrants full legal accountability and justice,’’ LSK President Faith Odhiambo said.
LSK accused the police of responding to demands for reform with more violence, killings, and brutality against peaceful demonstrators. While acknowledging the arrest of the officer, LSK had criticised the police for failing to disclose his name, rank, or service number.
“LSK demands that the officer be indicted and prosecuted without delay and treated as the face of impunity within the police service,’’ LSK said.
But a few hours later, the police disclosed details of the two police officers involved in the shooting as follows;
- No. 117193 Police Constable Duncan Kiprono,
- No. 119413 Police Constable Klinzy Barasa Masinde
The two officers, NPS says, have now been interdicted and are currently being processed by the Homicide Team, DCI Headquarters, pending further action.
According to LSK, the punishment for the two officers must send a strong message to all officers who violate their constitutional duties.
