The Independent Medico Legal Unit (IMLU) has called on the security apparatus in the country to ensure they are mindful of Kenyans’ rights even as they seek to ensure there is a peaceful election period.
IMLU board chairperson Zahid Rajan says in the past, the police and other government agencies have been accused of violating citizens’ rights, IMLU hopes will not arise ahead of the August 9 poll.
Speaking in Eldoret after holding a meeting with a section of bodaboda operators, Rajan said should there be any protests during the election period, the police must handle the situation better than they have done in the past.
“We believe peace starts with locals and even if they protest, there is a way of how to handle the crowd and allow them to exercise their rights,” said the IMLU board chairperson.
“There is no need to misuse the firearm by killing and raping innocent women,” he added.
Free and fair election
Rajan points out that it is the duty of the government to maintain law and order but also respect the rights of its citizens.
But even as IMLU calls for the upholding of human rights, it is also challenging the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to deliver a free and fair election.
The IMLU board chair says one of the key ways of ensuring a peaceful election is by respecting the will of the people.
“IEBC has had many issues and we hope it will deliver a democratic election. It is our country at stake since there is no plan B for Kenya,” Rajan insisted.
During the meeting, the boda boda operators drawn from various wards were taken through their rights as citizens, even as they also committed to preaching peace before, during and after the election.
Boda boda is one of the key industries in the country that has offered employment to thousands of Kenyans. The sector has however been a target for politicians who use some of them to cause chaos.
