By swaleh
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has summoned more than 50 police officers to account for their actions during recent anti-government protests. These demonstrations, including those related to the Finance Bill 2024 and the Azimio protests of 2023, resulted in numerous deaths and injuries across Kenya.
Key Details
Date Range for Summons: September 16 to September 19, 2024
Key Individuals Summoned: Over 15 senior police commanders, including Bungoma County Police Commander Francis Kooli, will meet with IPOA detectives during this period.
The IPOA is investigating multiple cases related to these protests. On June 25, two individuals, Reagan Ouko and Caroline Shiramba, were fatally shot in Kakamega County, while others, including Daniel Chimoita, Loise Mulefu, and Joseph Mwanza, sustained serious injuries. Another tragic incident occurred on July 23, when Daniel Wanje and December Shivachi were killed, and seven others were injured.
Official Response and Preparation
Following the IPOA summons, the Kenya Police Service has instructed the officers to meet with their legal representatives for briefings before their appearance. A communication from the police headquarters, signed by Elizabeth Marube on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General, emphasized the importance of these briefings:
“Legal officers from this headquarters will meet with concerned officers at the Regional headquarters on September 16 for a briefing prior to their appearance at the IPOA offices on the designated dates.”
In the Western region, specific officers such as Commander Kooli, Kakamega County Commander Lucy Kananu, and others from various units are required to provide detailed records, including operation orders, OB entries, police signals, and ammunition logs.
Challenges in the Investigation
The IPOA has faced challenges including non-cooperation from some police commanders, witness intimidation, and a lack of credible witnesses. Despite these hurdles, the Authority remains committed to uncovering the truth.
In a notable precedent, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) previously held senior police commanders accountable for the death of Baby Pendo in Kisumu in 2017, exploring the concept of command responsibility for the first time in Kenya’s legal history.
What’s Next?
The IPOA has warned that if investigations fail to identify the officers directly involved in the shootings, senior commanders might face criminal charges. This proactive approach underscores the Authority’s commitment to ensuring accountability and justice.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our blog.
