The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Kenya has issued a statement strongly condemning the excessive use of force by police during protests, that unfolded on July 7 Saba Saba Day, June 25 mass Gen Z-led protests, and June 18, Justice for Mwalimu Albert Ojwang protests.

The statement indicates that the media, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), and civil society organisations’ data confirm that at least 50 people have died from the three protests. The
latest casualty is 12-year-old Bridget Wainaina, who was hit by a stray bullet on Monday, July 7,
while inside her family compound. Hundreds have been injured and more abducted or forcibly
disappeared.

‘No parent should have to bury a child for standing up for their future. No citizen should
pay for a peaceful protest with their blood.”

FIDA Kenya decries the gross use of force by law enforcement during the recent nationwide protests and reiterates that peaceful protest is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution and international human rights instruments.

Women and girls were mostly affected with some reportedly sexually assaulted, tear-gassed in homes, or traumatized by violence during the June 25 protests. FIDA raises concern over the psychological impact on children and families who were exposed to the brutality.

FIDA welcomes the intervention by the Office of the High Commissioner for
Human Rights (OHCHR), which has called for a speedy, independent, and transparent
investigation into all cases of human rights violations and excessive use of force by the
National Police Service since June 2025. Accountability for victims and survivors must be
achieved.

FIDA-Kenya reiterates that the country must not slide backwards or allow fear to define
our democracy. We stand in solidarity with all the voices that are asking for justice and
accountability. Therefore, we have activated a Response Centre where we are offering legal
aid and psychosocial support, including trauma care, to both women and men who were
affected during the protests.

FIDA Kenya pledges to offer legal aid to affected women and children. The organization stands in solidarity with other human rights defenders calling for justice, accountability, and democratic freedoms.