Nakuru human rights defenders call for the arrest of police officers who manhandled activist James Mbugua

Human rights defenders in Nakuru have called for independent investigations into the violation of rights for the Nakuru activist who allegedly mishandled by the Police during the June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests.

The Nakuru Human Rights Defenders Network want the thorough investigations conducted into the incident to identify the police officers responsible to face the law.

James Mbugua, a nakuru based activist who is living with physical disability was manhandled and arrested by anti-riot police officers along Kenyatta Avenue in Nakuru, an incident the human rights defenders say violated his rights and dignity.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, the network's chairperson, Mwangi Muraya, urged authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect citizens exercising their constitutional rights.

The activists said they would continue pushing for justice for Mr Mbugua while calling on the public to remain peaceful and cooperate with investigations.

"If confirmed, this incident constitutes a grave violation of the Constitution, which guarantees every person the right to human dignity, equality and freedom from torture and cruel treatment," Muraya said in a statement.

The network also called for medical, psychosocial and legal support for Mr Mbugua and urged the National Police Service to strengthen accountability mechanisms and human rights training for officers.

Activist Maimuna Mwinyi regrets that human rights defenders continue to face intimidation and threats while carrying out their work.

"We have received threatening messages from unknown individuals and sometimes face challenges when reporting such incidents to the police," she said.

ENDS.