By Dories Kwamboka
Chief Justice Martha Koome has condemned the killings of protesters which happened during anti-government demonstrations across the country on Monday.
Koome called for an immediate end to the violence and a renewed commitment to constitutional values.
Speaking during the swearing-in of a new commissioner to the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) and the National Heroes Council (NHC), Koome emphasized the sanctity of life and the right of every Kenyan to peaceful assembly.
“The loss of lives witnessed in recent days is deeply painful and unacceptable in a democratic society,” she said.
“Every Kenyan has the right to demonstrate peacefully. No one deserves to die for exercising their constitutional freedoms.”
While affirming the right to protest, the Chief Justice also urged citizens to reject acts of lawlessness.
“Citizens have the constitutional right to peaceful protest, but must reject looting, violence, robbery, and the destruction of property or businesses,” she added.
Her remarks follow the July 7 Saba Saba anniversary protests commemorating the 1990 struggle for multi-party democracy, which turned chaotic.
The demonstrations, initially peaceful, devolved into unrest, with reports of looting and destruction.
More than ten people were reported dead, and several others injured.
In Parliament, lawmakers expressed outrage over the escalating violence.
Some MPs accused the government of deploying excessive force against demonstrators, while others criticized protest organizers for failing to manage crowds responsibly.
“All we want is a peaceful country with equality,” said MP Gladys Shollei.