Catholic bishops condemn police brutality, demand justice for youth killed in protests

Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) have condemned recent incidents of police brutality and extra-judicial killings targeting young people.

Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday morning, the bishops described the fatal shooting of a hawker, Boniface Kariuki Mwangi, 22 by police officer at point-blank range as “shocking,” but emphasizing that security officers are meant to protect, not harm.

They warned that a disturbing pattern of state violence and selective justice is undermining the country’s constitutional values and threatening the sanctity of life citing and the unresolved deaths of clergy and youth activists including Father John Mina, Father Alois, and Albert Ojwang.

“When those charged with upholding law and order become the source of fear and injustice, it undermines public trust and the rule of law.” The bishops stated. “These are not just names they are our brothers, sisters, priests, sons, daughters, and friends. They deserved protection, not persecution.”

Quoting the prophet Micah “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God” the bishops framed their statement as a call to conscience directed at both the state and the citizenry.

The bishops spoke with particular concern about the young people, many of whom were involved in the 2024 protests against new tax laws saying the country is marking one year since the Gen Z-led anti-tax protests began, who they say had raised legitimate concerns about rising costs, unemployment, and lack of government accountability.

While commending their courage and civic consciousness, the bishops condemned the violent state response that followed, which led to the deaths of many young people.“Our young people are not enemies of the state. They are citizens with valid concerns and hopes for a better future,” they said, calling for peaceful protests, honest dialogue, and justice for those killed or abducted.

The bishops have called on the youth to remain peaceful and vigilant.