CSO's Condemn Attack on Citizens During Demonstration

The Civil Society of Kenya(CSO) has condemned the recent attacks on citizens during demonstrations.

The CSO in a press statement issued on Sunday in Nairobi, have asked for respect for fundamental human rights citing the civil society is appalled by the alarming incidents witnessed recently where some peaceful protesters, exercising their democratic right to picket, were met with unnecessary force and arbitrary and unlawful arrests by the National Police Service.

“Safeguarding human rights is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative that ensures the dignity and well-being of every citizen. That notwithstanding, we acknowledge that whereas the right to protest is codified in the law, it has a corresponding duty that it be exercised in a peaceful manner,”CSO said in a press statement.

The civil society have Called for National Inclusive Dialogue and Revival of Multi-Sectoral Talks
We call for an immediate revival of the Bipartisan talks and emphasize the importance of making it a multi-sectoral representation.

The bipartisan talks gave Kenyans a glimmer of hope as it created a golden opportunity for issues affecting Kenyans to be deliberated and addressed.

The CSO also urged for reconstitution of the electoral body that an IEBC selection panel was constituted and Is operational, the recent developments occasioned by the bi-partisan parliamentary process have thrown the country Into uncertainties In terms of its operations and anticipated timelines.

The organization State that on the Cost living and Repeal of Finance Act 2023- urgent and necessary On 10th of July, 2023, the High Court extended orders barring Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u from implementing the Finance Act, 2023 after dismissing an
application by the government to lift the conservatory order.

According to Tifa polls 60% of Kenyans rejected the finance bill and this should not
be ignored.

“The Finance Act 20231 if implemented as is, will increase the cost of different basic
commodities through punitive taxes, including doubling the Value Added Tax on fuel to 16%, the ripple effect is an increase in prices of Unga, bread, and commuterfare among key basic commodities and services,”Added CSO

The organization noted with concern the reckless conduct of some of leaders who use reckless language that may incite violence and chaos, and others assaulting members of the public.

“Leaders should use their positions responsibly, promoting unity, understanding, and constructive dialogue rather than adding fuel to the flames of unrest. It is vital for the nation’s stability and prnsperity that leaders act as beacons of hope and reason ,” Stated the press statement.

They demanded for respect for Media Freedom & Responsible use of Media Platforms and to emphasize the importance of a free and independent media in a democratic society.

“Journalists play a critical role in providing unbiased infonnation to the public, and we call upon all parties to respect media freedom. An environment where journalists can report without fear of reprisal is essential for an informed citizenry and a thriving democracy,”Said in a statement.

The organization noted with concern increased spread of cases of disinf ormation, misinformation and hate speech through social media platforms and some vernacular stations. We haveobserved the use of old pictures and videos, Inciting video posts and clips and tweets targeting particular political leaders, political parties and communities. We urge users of communication channels to be mindful of the content they share and to exercise restraint.

They also ask citizens to watch the conduct of their public representatives and assess their leadership values in promoting national unity
and cohesion.