This archive report was first published on 12 June 2020.
June 12, 2020
Kenyan police have a reputation for being trigger-happy, and for one writer, this reality is all too personal.
Abigail Arunga, a Kenyan journalist, has had her share of run-ins with the police during protests. She recalls one particular protest where the police fired teargas canisters at protesters who had only walked 200 meters.
Arunga's experiences have left her with a deep-seated fear of the police, and she is not alone. Many Kenyans are scared of protesting, knowing that they risk being beaten, arrested, or even killed by the police.
Arunga's fear is not unfounded. In recent years, the Kenyan police have been accused of brutality, with many civilians losing their lives during protests. The police have also been accused of using excessive force, including the use of water cannons and armoured vehicles.
For Arunga, the reality of the police's brutality is a harsh reminder of the risks involved in protesting. She knows that the police are killers, and that their actions are often motivated by a desire to maintain power and control.
As Arunga reflects on her experiences, she is reminded of the many lives that have been lost during protests. She thinks of Samuel Maina, a young man who was killed by the police during a protest, and of Yassin Moyo, a 13-year-old boy who was also killed during a protest.
Arunga's story is a powerful reminder of the need for accountability and reform within the Kenyan police force. It is a call to action for those who value human rights and dignity, and who believe that the police should serve and protect, not oppress and kill.
