By Mandere Onyinkwa
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned the tear-gassing of worshippers at St. Peter’s ACK Church in Wairima, Othaya, Nyeri County.
KNHCR described the incident as “a day of shame” and a grave violation of constitutional rights.
According to reports, police officers—some allegedly hooded in defiance of court orders—deployed teargas inside the church during a peaceful Sunday service attended by children, elderly persons, and other congregants.
KNCHR said the use of force was “manifestly excessive, disproportionate, and indiscriminate,” and amounted to a blatant disregard for the sanctity of worship.
“The use of teargas in a Church or any place of worship environment is a disproportionate and reckless act that cannot be justified under any circumstances,” the Commission stated.
KNCHR noted that the incident violated multiple rights, including freedom of conscience and religion, freedom of assembly, and the right to security of the person.
The Commission demanded swift investigations by the Internal Affairs Unit of the National Police Service and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), as well as a public apology from the Ministry of Interior.
Chairperson Claris Ogangah reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to justice, saying: “KNCHR condemns this attack in the strongest possible terms and demands immediate and decisive action to ensure accountability and non-repetition.”
The Commission urged Kenyans to continue reporting human rights violations through its official channels as it monitors the investigations and legal proceedings.