The Law Society of Kenya President, Faith Odhiambo, has come out strongly against Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen following his recent remarks on police conduct during the June 25 protests.
These protests, which took place across the country, were sparked by public anger over the controversial Finance Bill 2025.
The protests saw thousands of Kenyans take to the streets in what was largely a peaceful demonstration. However, things quickly turned violent in several places, with disturbing reports of police brutality, injuries, and arrests.
Faith Odhiambo accused Murkomen of trying to justify the excessive use of force by police. She said his comments were not only careless but also a direct attack on the rights of Kenyans to demonstrate and express their views without fear.
According to her, instead of acknowledging the pain caused by police actions, Murkomen chose to defend officers who had clearly violated the law.
She warned that such behavior from a senior government official sends a dangerous message that impunity will be tolerated.
Odhiambo reminded the government that the Constitution of Kenya allows for peaceful protests and that every citizen has a right to be heard without facing violence or harassment.
She said the role of the police is to protect demonstrators, not to intimidate or harm them. The LSK President added that the legal profession cannot allow the state to continue using the police to silence dissent.
She pointed out that many Kenyans who participated in the protests were unarmed youths calling for accountability, yet they were met with tear gas, rubber bullets, and even live ammunition.
Various human rights groups and witnesses also supported Odhiambo’s position, citing several cases of unnecessary police aggression.
Videos and photos shared on social media showed injured protesters, people being dragged by officers, and the use of excessive force even in areas where demonstrations were peaceful.
These images have caused anger among Kenyans who are demanding justice for those hurt or arrested during the protests.
Odhiambo called for immediate and independent investigations into the conduct of police officers during the protests.
She said the Independent Policing Oversight Authority must act quickly and without bias to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. She also asked the government to stop threatening protest leaders and instead open channels for dialogue.
She emphasized that listening to citizens is the only way forward, not violence and suppression.The LSK has assured Kenyans that it will continue to defend their constitutional rights and stand up against any form of state oppression.
Faith Odhiambo’s firm stand reflects growing frustration among many Kenyans who feel ignored and mistreated by the very institutions meant to serve them. The demand now is for action, justice, and respect for the rule of law.
