Maandamano in Kenya

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised concerns over the infringement of children’s rights during the nationwide anti-government protests led by the Azimio opposition party. .

According to LSK, numerous children have been subjected to “arrest, prosecution, and detention alongside adults,” during the protests which the body says directly contradicts the safeguards outlined in the Children’s Act and Article 53 of the Constitution.

“The Act and the Constitution recognize the right of all children to be protected from abuse, neglect, harmful cultural practices, all forms of violence, inhumane treatment and punishment, and hazardous or exploitative labor,” said LSK’s President Eric Theuri.

Children’s rights have been violated as protests continue in Kenya

Theuri pointed out that Article 30 of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child explicitly lays out guidelines on the treatment of children who are accused or found guilty of breaking the law. He urged the relevant government institutions to strictly adhere to the rule of law when dealing with children involved in these situations.

“We call upon all the responsible institutions including the National Police Service, ODPP, and the Judiciary to observe and respect the rights of the Children as enshrined in the Law,” he said.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) on Tuesday in its address on the conduct of the police during the demonstrations organized by Azimio revealed that seven minors are unlawfully held at the Industrial Area police station.

Roselyn Odede, the Chairperson of the Commission, disclosed the figure while providing the briefing.

A week ago, UNICEF also expressed concerns over the safety and well-being of children in Nairobi and various regions of Kenya amidst the ongoing protests.

the police and government have received a public backlash for using excessive force and subjecting citizens indiscriminately to inhumane violations.