A BBC Eye investigation titled ‘Blood Government’ revealed that Kenyan security officers shot youths during the anti-tax protest outside Parliament in June 2024. The investigation analyzed the events of June 25, 2024, when demonstrators voiced their disapproval of the controversial finance bill. This bill proposed punitive taxes that would drastically increase the cost of living.
Kenya’s Gen Z generation led the protests in central Nairobi, initially maintaining a peaceful atmosphere filled with music, painted faces, and a carnival-like spirit. However, tensions soared as Parliament members passed the bill with 195 votes in favor and 106 against.
After lawmakers approved the bill, protesters attempted to storm Parliament grounds in frustration. Security forces responded violently, using excessive force that included live ammunition. The BBC investigation uncovered police and military officers’ involvement in dispersing the crowd through such measures.
Among the victims were David Chege, a 39-year-old software engineer, Ericsson Mutisya, a 25-year-old butcher, and Eric Shieni, a 27-year-old university finance student. Police killed the three men despite them being unarmed, exemplifying stark brutality.
The BBC used open-source intelligence and 3D reconstruction techniques to trace the fatal shots to specific security personnel. One officer, distinguished by his uniform, fired into the crowd. Another officer, who shouted “kill” in Swahili, worked at Nairobi’s Central Police Station.
Despite these discoveries, authorities have taken no action against the officers involved. Investigations by Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) face hurdles, including the lack of cooperation from witnesses and police officers.
The documentary has sparked outrage and calls for justice, with the need for transparency and accountability in Kenya’s security forces being highlighted. It serves as a reminder of the importance of the protection of the right to peaceful protest and the addressing of systemic issues within law enforcement.
