All Saints Cathedral Demands Apology from Police Chief Over Violent Crackdown During Anti-Finance Bill Protests

In a dramatic turn of events, All Saints Cathedral has issued a strong demand for an apology from Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome following a violent crackdown on anti-Finance Bill 2024 protesters who sought refuge within the church's premises.

In a statement released on Sunday, the church condemned the actions of police officers who, on Tuesday, June 25, launched teargas canisters and fired live ammunition inside the church compound. The altercation resulted in injuries to several individuals, including unarmed youths who had fled the chaos of the protests outside.

“At 4:30 pm, a contingent of military officers stormed the compound of ASC, threatening everyone they found. They ordered unarmed, peaceful youth to lie down and shot live bullets indiscriminately in the compound,” the church's statement read. The cathedral asserted that the police had violated the sanctity of the church, a protected public infrastructure.

"We therefore demand an apology from the Inspector General of Police for his officers nearly deconsecrating our place of worship," declared the cathedral, emphasizing the need for law enforcement to respect sacred spaces.

Presidential U-turn Amid Mounting Pressure

In response to the escalating protests and public pressure, President William Ruto announced on Wednesday, June 26, that he would not sign the controversial Finance Bill 2024 into law. The bill, which had sparked widespread demonstrations across Nairobi and other parts of Kenya, faced intense opposition from citizens who criticized its economic implications.

President Ruto stated that he would instead engage directly with Kenyan youth to hear their concerns and perspectives on the proposed legislation. This move marks a significant shift in the administration’s approach, signaling a willingness to reconsider the bill's provisions in light of public sentiment.

To formalize the withdrawal, President Ruto has submitted a Memorandum of Referral to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, initiating the legislative process to retract the contentious bill.

Tragic Toll of Protests

The protests against the Finance Bill 2024 have been marked by tragic violence. Reports indicate that over 27 youths were killed by police gunfire, with many more sustaining injuries. Human rights organizations have suggested that the actual number of victims could be higher, with numerous unidentified bodies reportedly lying in morgues across the country.

The call for accountability and justice continues to resonate as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the protests. The demand for an apology from the police chief underscores the broader call for law enforcement to exercise restraint and respect human rights, even in the face of civil unrest.