NPS Praises Police Conduct Amid Uproar Over Deaths During Saba Saba Demos: "Exceptional Restraint"
- Police praised their own conduct during the Saba Saba protests, despite public uproar over deaths and injuries, saying officers showed restraint
- At least 11 civilians were confirmed dead and dozens wounded as chaos erupted in multiple regions, but authorities insisted the violence was triggered by infiltrators
- Authorities blamed “criminal elements” for the violence, while hailing officers for showing restraint in the face of looting, attacks, and destruction
- Over 500 people were arrested nationwide, including a sitting MP, in the aftermath of the unrest, but questions lingered over the legality
Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.
Nairobi - The National Police Service (NPS) has lauded its officers' conduct during the Saba Saba protests, terming it exceptional amid outcry over reported fatalities and injuries.
Source: Getty Images
The nationwide demonstrations, held on Monday, July 7, to mark the historic day, turned chaotic in multiple locations, leaving at least 11 people dead and scores injured.
In a press statement issued Monday evening, NPS acknowledged the scale and impact of the protests but blamed criminal elements for infiltrating the otherwise peaceful gatherings.
Search option is now available at TUKO! Feel free to search the content on topics/people you enjoy reading about in the top right corner ;)
According to the statement by NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the day was marred by violence, looting, and attacks on law enforcement officers.
"Regrettably, preliminary reports indicate fatalities, injuries, damage to motor vehicles, and several incidents of looting,” the statement read in part.
The NPS confirmed the deaths of 11 civilians and injuries to another 11, alongside 52 police officers who were reportedly hurt during confrontations with protesters.
Nyaga also reported extensive property damage: 12 police vehicles, three government cars, and four civilian vehicles were damaged.
In total, 567 individuals were arrested across the country, including Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, a vocal ally of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua.
Why did NPS praise police conduct?
Despite mounting criticism over the heavy-handed police response, NPS doubled down on its narrative, saying the officers on duty had exercised professionalism in the face of what it described as provocation.
"The NPS also commends its officers for demonstrating exceptional restraint and professionalism in the face of sustained violence and provocation by criminals who infiltrated the protests," the police stated.
The NPS further thanked the section of Kenyans who remained peaceful, emphasising that those arrested will face prosecution.
Source: Getty Images
Nyaga explained that each reported incident, the statement added, would be investigated fully in line with the law.
"Each reported incident will be subject to further investigation, in accordance with the law and encourage anyone with information about individuals involved in criminal activities who are still at large to come forward and share that information by reporting to the nearest police station or contact us," Nyaga added.
Did Raila lead Saba Saba Day celebrations?
As earlier reported, ODM leader Raila Odinga urged a national dialogue to address Kenya’s pressing challenges, marking the 35th anniversary of the Saba Saba uprising.
He proposed forming an inclusive, intergenerational “national conclave” to tackle youth unemployment, police reforms, corruption, impunity, and weak institutions.
Raila called for binding conclusions from this forum, backed by a public referendum, to ensure legitimacy and implementation.
He raised concerns about heavy police roadblocks that prevented him from joining the Kamukunji commemorations and warned against reverting to repression.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
