Kenya: UN concern about the deaths of protests around the country

During a press conference held in Geneva today, Tuesday, UNHCR spokeswoman Ravenna Shamdasani said that it was used “Fateh ammunition” Elastic bullets, tear gas and water hoses to respond to the protests.

The Kenyan police had reported the death of at least 11 people, the injury of 52 policemen and the arrest of 567 people. While the Kenyan National Committee for Human Rights reported the killing of at least ten people, the injury of 29 others, the arrest of 37 people, and the kidnapping of two people.

Mrs. Shamdasani said he “Very disturbing” These last incidents come just two weeks after 15 protesters were killed and a much larger number was injured in Nairobi and other parts of Kenya on June 25. She added: “The High Commissioner for Human Rights renews Volcker Turk his call to calm and self -control, fully respect for the freedoms of expression, the formation of associations and a peaceful assembly. It is necessary to address the legitimate grievances behind these protests.”

The UNHCR spokeswoman indicated that the police announced an investigation into the previous incidents. She said that the High Commissioner repeats his call for an immediate, comprehensive, independent and transparent investigation in all reported killings and other violations and abuses of international human rights law, including what is related to the use of force, adding that it is “Officials must be held accountable.”

Mrs. Shamdasani reminded that under international human rights law, the deadly dead force should not be used by law enforcement officers, including firearms, except when ultimately necessary to protect lives from an imminent threat. She said her office is ready to support the Kenyan authorities in addressing these challenges, including investigations.