By Dorothy Musyoka
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has condemned shoot to kill and maim orders issued to law enforcement officers.
This comes days after the President ordered for shoot to maim by police officers to anyone who shall cause public unrest during anti-government protests.
“In a protest or any other environment that requires law enforcement, all the above orders, shoot to kill, maim, disorient or shock citizens are wrong,” stated Odinga.
In his statement, Odinga emphasized that no circumstances justify giving the police illegitimate and deadly powers over citizens, even in cases where individuals may be suspected of breaking the law.
He reiterated the importance of upholding the Rule of Law and ensuring due process as the bedrock of a just society.
“As a country, we must all times opt for the rule of law and due process and reject the temptation to give police illegitimate and deadly power over citizens even when the citizens are perceived to have broken the law,” Odinga remarked.
He further decried the creeping militarization of the police, citing global examples that show such approaches only serve to escalate violence.
“A militarized approach to policing endangers both the suspect and the law enforcement officers,” he added.
Odinga’s remarks come at a time when citizens have raised alarm over increased police brutality in response to protests witnessed in the country.