Kenya Human Rights Commission, KNCHR Refutes Ruto’s Claims Of Fake Report On Githurai Massacre

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has clarified claims made by President William Ruto on live television concerning the provision of fake data of the alleged massacre of civilians in Githurai by the police.

In a statement, Roseline Odede, Chairperson of KNCHR, refuted the allegation by Ruto, stating that the commission had not issued any statement on the Githurai killings.

The commission further explained that during their last conference, they made it clear they did not have adequate information and were still confirming the happenings in Githurai, Rongai, Migori, Nakuru, and other parts of the country.

Odede noted that the data they reported constituted information in the commission’s possession at the time.

In the report, the commission posted a 6-page copy on X, explaining “unprecedented and shocking human rights violations” and violent protests witnessed during the Finance Bill demonstrations, which started Tuesday, June 18, 2024, throughout the country.

The Commission [KNCHR] witnessed with shocks as police officers moved into residential areas of Githurai and Juja in the evening of Tuesday, 25th June 2024 and were allegedly involved in the indiscriminate shooting of civilians,” the statement reads in part.

As a result of this, KNCHR noted that it had received “unverified reports of scores of residents who were killed by stray bullets” and said it would be investigating to ensure accountabilities for the atrocities allegedly committed.

Meanwhile, the KNCHR reported 22 deaths on Wednesday, June 26, and today, their data shows 24 deaths from the commencement of protests to date.

The commission expressed condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery as it reiterated its commitment to providing accurate information and upholding human rights nationwide.

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Mayowa Durosinmi

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M. Durosinmi is a West Africa Weekly investigative reporter covering Politics, Human Rights, Health, and Security in West Africa and the Sahel Region

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