Belgut Member of Parliament Nelson Koech has come under intense criticism after urging police officers to adopt a shoot-to-kill approach against protesters accused of looting or causing violence during demonstrations.
Speaking in his constituency on Thursday, Koech declared that security forces should use lethal force when faced with individuals he described as "armed criminals" infiltrating peaceful protests.
Koech’s remarks followed President William Ruto’s recent directive, in which the Head of State authorized police to shoot and immobilize violent individuals.
Koech’s remarks followed President William Ruto’s recent directive, in which the Head of State authorized police to shoot and immobilize violent individuals.
However, Koech criticized the president’s approach as too lenient, arguing that shooting to injure was insufficient when dealing with dangerous elements.
"If someone comes after your life, you must defend yourself fully. Police should shoot and kill such criminals on the spot," Koech said.
The MP, who chairs the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, further justified his position by claiming that the police are well trained to assess risks and determine when lethal force is necessary.
The MP, who chairs the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, further justified his position by claiming that the police are well trained to assess risks and determine when lethal force is necessary.
He insisted that anyone attempting to storm police stations or government institutions like the State House does not deserve leniency.
His statement has sparked a national uproar, with human rights activists, opposition leaders, and members of civil society condemning his comments.
His statement has sparked a national uproar, with human rights activists, opposition leaders, and members of civil society condemning his comments.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) described Koech’s call as reckless and unconstitutional, warning that it could legitimize extrajudicial killings and fuel more violence.
“Calling for the execution of suspects without due process is a gross violation of the Constitution. Such rhetoric is dangerous in a democratic society,” said KHRC Executive Director Davis Malombe.
Amnesty International Kenya also raised alarm over the potential abuse of power by law enforcement, especially during politically charged protests.
“Calling for the execution of suspects without due process is a gross violation of the Constitution. Such rhetoric is dangerous in a democratic society,” said KHRC Executive Director Davis Malombe.
Amnesty International Kenya also raised alarm over the potential abuse of power by law enforcement, especially during politically charged protests.
They urged the government to prioritize de-escalation and lawful crowd control methods over lethal force.
Koech’s remarks come at a time when Kenya is experiencing heightened tension due to youth-led protests across major towns.
Koech’s remarks come at a time when Kenya is experiencing heightened tension due to youth-led protests across major towns.
While some protests have remained peaceful, others have seen outbreaks of violence, looting, and confrontations with police.
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