The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has issued a strong call for justice and accountability following what it describes as widespread state-sponsored violence during recent protests across the country.

In a statement released on July 9, 2025, the organization condemned the government's brutal crackdown on peaceful demonstrators, including those who participated in the Saba Saba Day events and earlier youth-led protests. The unrest has reportedly claimed the lives of at least 50 people, with many others injured or unaccounted for.

FIDA-Kenya expressed solidarity with the victims, sending heartfelt condolences to bereaved families and reaffirming that no citizen should lose their life while exercising their right to peaceful protest.

“No parent should be forced to bury a child for demanding a better future. No Kenyan should shed blood for standing up peacefully. We wish a quick recovery to all those injured and stand with the survivors,” the statement read in part.

The federation outlined five urgent demands aimed at addressing what it calls a national human rights emergency:

First, it is calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of law enforcement officers who opened fire on protestors, raided private homes, or collaborated with criminal elements to inflict harm on civilians.

Special concern was raised over plainclothes officers operating unmarked Subaru vehicles, reportedly involved in assaults across towns including Ngong, Rongai, Juja, and Kiserian.

Second, FIDA-Kenya urged the government to ensure hospitals and healthcare centers remain safe spaces during protests, allowing uninterrupted access to treatment for the injured and the general public.

Third, the federation called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to fast-track its investigations into police misconduct, release its findings to the public, and recommend firm legal and disciplinary action against those responsible.

Fourth, the organization implored President William Ruto to recognize the pain felt across the nation and lead the way in championing justice, accountability, and police reforms.

Finally, FIDA-Kenya warned that unless urgent action is taken to bridge the growing rift between citizens and security agencies, the nation risks descending into deeper instability.