Embakasi North Member of Parliament John Gakuya has issued a call for justice over the killings and injuries sustained by young Kenyans during the June 2024 Gen Z-led anti-Finance Bill protests. While appearing on TV47’s Morning Café Show on Tuesday 3, Gakuyu criticized law enforcement officers who allegedly used excessive force, calling for their immediate prosecution.

“Where are the police officers who committed crimes during the Gen Z protests?” Gakuya questioned. “If President Ruto is apologizing, these officers who killed Kenyans should be prosecuted and made to pay for their crimes.”

Gakuya further dismissed the effectiveness of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), expressing frustration at its apparent inability to bring rogue officers to justice. He said that despite the public outcry and mounting evidence, there have been no meaningful prosecutions or disciplinary actions taken.

“Compensation cannot bring back lost Gen Z lives,” the MP lamented, noting that financial redress alone is insufficient without proper accountability. He recommended the establishment of an independent investigative body, citing IPOA’s failure to produce results since the protests erupted in mid-June, last year.

IPOA, mandated to hold the police accountable has continued to face criticism from both the public and activists from what is seen as slow, opaque investigations into the matter. This is despite the body acknowledging receipt of over 30 complaints linked to the protests and reportedly commencing investigations. No police officer has yet been charged or publicly disciplined in connection with the alleged abuses.
Gakuyu’s comments come in the wake of public outcry for the prosecution of the rogue police officers, almost a year on. They add on the mounting pressure on the government to address police brutality and ensure institutional reform.

As the county continues to heal from the atrocities committed during the protests, the lingering question remains, will the justice of the grieving families and a mobilized, hurt youth be served?