Former Chief Justice Dr. Willy Mutunga was tear-gassed by the police in Nairobi while demanding the release of protesters who were arrested during the Saba Saba protests organized by veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga. The incident occurred on Friday, July 8, 2023.
Mutunga, accompanied by activist Boniface Mwangi and other activists, joined the demonstration demanding the release of the detained protesters. However, the peaceful protest took a violent turn when the police resorted to tear gas, causing a commotion at the police station.
During the incident, one person was injured, leading to further condemnation of the police action. Activist Mwangi, who is also a professional photojournalist, accused the Officer in Charge of the Central Police Station, Moses Mutayi, of violating their right to protest.
Mwangi lamented the use of tear gas by the police and criticized President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua, accusing them of undermining the Constitution. He also expressed frustration with Ruto’s regime, claiming that it hindered efforts by former CJ Mutunga and veteran lawyer John Khaminwa to secure the release of the detained protesters on bail.
Accompanying Mutunga and Mwangi to the Central Police Station were Kenya National Commission on Human Rights commissioner Victor Kamau and city lawyer Lempaa Soyinka. Together, they added their voices to the demand for the protesters’ release, highlighting the importance of upholding human rights and the freedom to protest.
This incident raises concerns about the reemergence of oppressive tactics reminiscent of the Moi regime. Tear-gassing peaceful protesters and suppressing their right to express dissenting views is a worrying development in Kenya’s democracy.
It is crucial to respect and protect the rights of all citizens, including the freedom of assembly and expression. The use of excessive force by the police undermines these fundamental principles.
As the events unfolded, various perspectives emerged, with some highlighting the need for peaceful dialogue to address grievances and others emphasizing the authorities’ responsibility to maintain law and order. Such diverse perspectives contribute to a well-rounded understanding of the situation and encourage open conversation.
The tear-gassing of former CJ Willy Mutunga and other activists during the demand for the release of arrested protesters underscores the need for continued advocacy and action to safeguard civil liberties in Kenya. It is the responsibility of the government and law enforcement agencies to protect these rights and ensure that peaceful protests can take place without fear of violence or repression.
In the coming days, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond and whether steps will be taken to address the concerns raised by the protesters. The incident serves as a reminder that the democratic progress achieved in Kenya must be nurtured and protected to ensure a just and inclusive society for all its citizens.
The conversation surrounding this incident and the broader issues it raises will undoubtedly continue, with individuals and organizations committed to upholding human rights and democracy closely monitoring the developments.
