On 20th June 2025, a shocking event took place in Mwiki, Kasarani, during the ongoing protests against the controversial Finance Bill.
As residents gathered to express their anger over the high cost of living, heavy taxation, and neglected infrastructure like poor road networks, tensions between the public and police quickly escalated. What was meant to be a peaceful protest turned chaotic when one police officer was filmed opening fire on the crowd.
The officer, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, reportedly shot at protesters, injuring several people before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle.
The disturbing footage of the officer shooting at unarmed civilians and then escaping has caused nationwide outrage. Many Kenyans are angry, not just because of the shooting, but because the officer was able to escape so easily without being arrested.
Witnesses said the officer seemed to appear from nowhere, was not in uniform, and acted without warning. This raised serious questions about the conduct of police during protests, especially when off-duty officers involve themselves in such dangerous acts.
Human rights activists have strongly condemned the shooting, calling it a clear case of police brutality. They argue that this is not an isolated case, but part of a larger pattern of how Kenyan police handle public demonstrations.
Over the years, there have been numerous reports of officers using excessive force, shooting unarmed protesters, and even targeting journalists. These actions have led to the deaths and injuries of many innocent people, creating fear among citizens who simply want their voices to be heard.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is now under pressure to investigate this incident thoroughly and take action. Kenyans are demanding accountability and justice for those who were hurt in Mwiki.
The IPOA has dealt with similar cases in the past, but many feel that justice has often come too late or not at all. There is growing frustration that officers who abuse their power continue to go unpunished, making it difficult for the public to trust the very people who are meant to protect them.
This incident in Mwiki is a sad reminder of the fragile relationship between security forces and the public in Kenya. The right to peaceful protest is protected by the constitution, yet many citizens fear being harmed when they speak up against the government.
Unless urgent reforms are made to hold police accountable, the cycle of violence during protests is likely to continue. The people of Kenya deserve better protection, not fear, when they exercise their democratic rights.
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