Gachagua’s DCP Slams Police Brutality, Demands Media Freedom and Justice for Victims
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, through his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), has come out strongly following the bloody June 25 protests. He broke his silence with a firm message condemning police brutality, media shutdown, and demanding justice for the families of those killed.
“We demand an immediate end to police brutality,” read the party’s statement issued Wednesday evening.
“Restore all media operations without delay.”
“We stand with every family mourning their loved ones. They deserve justice, not silence.”
A Call for Justice and Freedom
The DCP condemned the shocking attacks on press freedom. The party termed the media shutdown a form of “State-sponsored censorship”, calling it a clear violation of the Kenyan Constitution.
“Silencing the media is silencing the truth,” the statement continued.
“This is not just illegal—it is dangerous.”
Earlier that day, the Communication Authority (CA) had ordered TV and radio stations to halt live coverage of the protests. Hours later, NTV and KTN were pulled off air as CA officials stormed transmission centers, deactivating free-to-air signals.
Court Steps In As Chaos Reigns
As outrage spread across the nation, the High Court issued a conservatory order stopping CA from continuing the media blackout. The ruling offered hope to many Kenyans who rely on independent media for real-time updates.
Simultaneously, horrifying videos surfaced online showing police officers firing live bullets and beating protesters, some of them minors. According to Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), at least 11 people have died—including a Form Three student, a man, and even a child in Mukuru and Pipeline.
“The use of live bullets on unarmed protesters is unconstitutional,” said KHRC in a statement.
“These deaths must not be ignored.”
Families Blocked from Honouring the Fallen
The protests were organized to remember Gen Z victims of the 2024 demonstrations. Families wanted to deliver petitions to Parliament and State House, seeking answers and reform.
But security forces sealed off the Nairobi CBD, wrapped Parliament in razor wire, and placed barricades—effectively silencing grieving citizens.
“We only wanted to be heard,” said one tearful parent in a viral video.
“But they blocked us, again.”
DCP Stands with the Youth and Press
Gachagua’s party pledged solidarity with Gen Z and media workers, urging the State to compensate bereaved families and uphold civil rights.
“We stand with the youth and with journalists,” the DCP said.
“Kenya must choose democracy over tyranny.”ALSO READ: Katiba Institute & KHRC Sue State Over Media Blackout Amid Media Blackout
Gachagua’s DCP Slams Police Brutality, Demands Media Freedom and Justice for Victims
