KNCHR demands accountability and justice over Angata Barikoi violence
Early reports indicate that five individuals were killed and several others injured following an encounter with officers from GSU.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has strongly condemned the violence that erupted in Angata Barikoi, Kilgoris, Narok County, on Monday, April 28, 2025.
Early reports indicate that five individuals were killed and several others injured following an encounter with officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) and Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), who were deployed to manage a protest over a disputed 6,000-acre piece of land.
The Commission expressed grave concern about the excessive use of force by security officers against unarmed civilians peacefully protesting their grievances.
"This incident constitutes a clear violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life, security, and human dignity, as enshrined in the Constitution. The KNCHR offers its condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to the injured," said the commission in a statement.
"The actions reported in Angata Barrikoi represent a flagrant disregard for the supreme law of the land, the Constitution of Kenya, and the established principles governing the conduct of national security organs."
It added that, "The National Police Service, established under Article 239(1)(c), is mandated to strive for the highest standards of professionalism and discipline, prevent corruption, promote transparency and accountability, and comply with constitutional standards of human rights and fundamental freedoms (Article 244)."
The commission said the use of live ammunition against protesters is a direct violation of the Right to Life under Article 26(1), which guarantees that no one’s life shall be taken except under strictly defined legal circumstances.
The KNCHR is calling for an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the events in Angata Barikoi.
The Commission insists that those responsible for the loss of life and the violation of citizens' rights be held accountable. It also urges authorities to take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents from recurring.
It pointed out potential violations of property rights under Article 40 of the Constitution, noting that a court order was in place prohibiting interference with the land dispute, which security forces may have ignored while proceeding with demarcation activities.
Furthermore, the Commission condemned the actions of the security forces as a breach of national security principles outlined in Article 238, which mandates that national security be pursued in compliance with the law and with respect for human rights and freedoms.
In its recommendations, KNCHR called for the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conduct an immediate and independent investigation into the killings and injuries, with a particular focus on the use of force by the involved officers.
The Commission urged IPOA to expedite the investigation and release its findings and recommendations for potential disciplinary or criminal action.
Additionally, it called on the Inspector General of the National Police Service to suspend all officers involved in the incident until the conclusion of the IPOA investigation.