Families of individuals killed during peaceful protests in June 2024 during a press conference in Nairobi on Sunday, May 04, 2025. [Bernard Orwongo, Standard]

The families of individuals killed during peaceful protests in June 2024 have called on President William Ruto and the Kenyan Parliament to take immediate action.

They plan to deliver a petition on June 25, marking one year since their children and loved ones were slain by security forces.

The petition demands justice, including the arrest and prosecution of the police officers and their commanders responsible for the deaths.

It also calls for compensation for the victims' families and those injured in the protests. The families also seek an inquiry into the destruction of property and the criminal elements who infiltrated the protests.

The petitioners described the violence as targeted killings. Many victims were shot in the back or head, indicating the intent to kill, not capture, said families.

“You left me with no last words, but only receiving a call and finding you lifeless,” said Gillian Munyao, mother of Rex Masai, one of the victims.

“I know you told God in the process after that policeman shot you and watched you die slowly.”

The families are also calling for a public inquiry into the violence and for the government to provide psycho-social support to the affected individuals, especially those suffering from trauma.

The petition will be presented to the Office of the President and Parliament on June 25, 2025, a year after the killings occurred near Parliament and in Nairobi’s central business district. By David Njaaga, The Standard