Kisumu women demand justice for victims of police brutality

By Peter Ochieng

Kisumu women on Tuesday narrated what they witnessed during anti-governmnet demos called by the opposition, last month.

The women, drawn from various parts of the county that were largely affected by demonstrations namely; Sondu, Manyatta, Obunga, Nyawita, Kondele, Nyalenda, Bandani and Nyamasaria, said they witnessed first hand, how police used excessive force to quell the protests.

In the end, over ten people died and scores left with injuries, majority being men.

Addressing the press in Kisumu, the women demanded for justice of their fallen kin.

"To the Judiciary, we want justice," they demanded.

They recalled how police literally "brought violence from the streets into our homes."

"Our sons were dragged from their houses, beaten and later accused of demonstrating even when the evidence shows another thing. In one instance even demanding the stripping naked of one of us right in her house, stealing and eating our food and then destroying what was left."

They called out president William Ruto for giving police a pat on the back 'over a job well done' during the demos.

"Inflicting more pain, the president shocked us when he publicly praised the police who meted violence and killed innocent Kenyans. We are disappointed by his utterances that clearly defeat the spirit of our constitution that confirms the president to be a symbol of national unity," added the women.

They urged organisers of future demonstrations to ensure they are conducted in a peaceful manner.