The demonstrations, which erupted in response to proposed government finance bills, spiralled out of control when thousands of young people gathered outside Parliament ahead of a critical vote on the controversial legislation.

More than 100 000 people took part in the protest, primarily driven by anger over planned tax hikes. Tensions mounted, leading to the deployment of Kenyan security forces to manage the crowds. Tragically, 23 individuals lost their lives as a result of gunfire during the unrest.

The investigation, led by the BBC's Runako Celina, involved an extensive analysis of over 5000 videos and photos taken on the day of the protest. The findings allowed her team to pinpoint the individuals responsible for the fatal shots. Notably, one Police Officer was heard shouting "kill" moments before the deaths of Ericsson Mutisya and David Chege. Additionally, the same officer, along with another police officer, was identified as the one who fired the fatal shots, while a soldier was linked to the killing of protester Eric Shieni.

"We have identified the officer who shouted the word 'kill' and the two officers who fired the fatal shots, as well as the soldier who shot Eric Shieni," Celina remarked in her report.

In response, the Kenyan Defence Forces said they had not received a formal request to investigate their personnel but emphasised their commitment to upholding the law. However, they did not comment on whether any further internal investigations would be initiated.

Kenyan police, for their part, expressed their willingness to support any external investigation but noted that they were unable to conduct an inquiry into their own forces.

--ChannelAfrica--