Johannesburg, South Africa — The Kenyan rights group Katiba Institute has filed a contempt case against Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja, charging the authorities with ignoring a court order by establishing unannounced roadblocks in central Nairobi. These measures were put in place ahead of the second anniversary of the Gen Z uprising, a series of anti-government demonstrations that began in 2024 amidst rising living costs and corruption.
The protests culminated in the occupation of Parliament and resulted in the deaths of at least 127 individuals in 2024 and 2025, as reported by Kenya’s police watchdog.
The roadblocks were justified by the government as a necessary precaution against the potential infiltration of criminal groups planning to loot and assault civilians.
However, rights activists assert that these roadblocks infringe upon freedom of movement, obstruct emergency services, and unlawfully suppress peaceful commemorations.
The legal action against Kanja is unfolding amidst growing criticism of the Kenyan police’s handling of public protests, including accusations of excessive force.
The National Police Service (NPS) has faced allegations of operating with near-total impunity during the 2024 and 2025 protests, which led to numerous deaths and injuries.
As the case against Inspector General Kanja progresses, its outcome is awaited with great interest.
The verdict could have significant implications for police accountability and the balance between maintaining public order and respecting individual rights in Kenya.
The incident in Nairobi serves as a stark reminder of the challenges countries face in managing social unrest, economic hardship, and corruption, while also emphasizing the need to maintain a careful balance between security measures and the protection of fundamental human rights.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
