UK, US Express Concerns over Police Brutality in Kenya

The UK has joined the US in condemning police brutality witnessed in Kenya in recent times.

In a statement issued through the Minister for Africa Rory Stewart on Monday, the UK termed the brutality and killings of demonstrators by police in Kenya as a violation of human rights.

It further called for investigation and prosecution of officers behind the violation of the law and the constitution of Kenya.

“I urge security forces to exercise maximum restraint and call on protestors who are exercising their constitutional rights to do so peacefully. All allegations of abuses on the part of the security forces should be fully investigated and action taken against security personnel found to have committed violations,” the statement read in part.

The UK government further reiterated that it will continue offering support to Kenya and expressed concerns over the current political environment in Kenya.

“I have followed closely developments in Kenya over the last few days as the elections have taken place. This is an important moment for Kenya and African democracy. The UK stands together with all Kenyans at this critical time,” he conveyed.

Stewart further urged political leaders to come out and publicly denounce violence.

In a statement issued earlier by Ambassador Robert Godec, the US expressed concerns over violence reported in some parts of the country and condemned police brutality seen during demonstrations called by the opposition.

“The United States is profoundly concerned by the outbreaks of violence in Kenya following the October 26 election. Leaders and politicians should clearly and publicly reject violence and work to keep the peace and make every effort to ensure the supporters do so as well,” read part of the statement.

“We are deeply concerned by reports of excessive use of force by the police; we urge that all such allegations be fully investigated and any officer who have acted outside the law be held to account,” added Godec.