Human rights activists have called for immediate arrests of individuals involved in a violent attack at the Mombasa County Assembly. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, targeted activists and a journalist who were at the assembly to submit a petition.

Hussein Khalid, Executive Director of Vocal Africa, reported that one of their officials sustained head injuries while documenting the events and is currently undergoing medical scans. He condemned the assault on both activists and journalists, highlighting concerns over increasing goonism in Mombasa.

The activists have engaged with senior security officials, including Coast Regional Police Commander Ali Nuno, who assured that investigations are ongoing and perpetrators will be apprehended. Photographs of some attackers have been collected and handed over to authorities to aid in the probe.

Concerns Over Police Conduct

Hussein Khalid criticized the police officers present during the attack, stating that although they were called by the County Assembly to provide security, they failed to intervene as violence unfolded. This inaction has raised questions about police accountability in maintaining public safety during demonstrations.

Francis Auma from Muhuri Rapid Response also expressed worry over the spread of goonism to Mombasa, noting that similar violent disruptions had previously been observed in other Kenyan cities.

Allegations of Political Involvement

Salma Hemed, Executive Director of She Rises and a victim of the attack, alleged that politicians played a role in orchestrating the violence. She echoed concerns about police passivity, emphasizing that officers merely observed the assaults without taking action.

Mathias Shipeta of Haki Africa Rapid Response confirmed that despite the attack, activists plan to return to the County Assembly to submit their petition, urging police to act decisively to prevent future incidents.

Demands from Activists

  • Thorough investigations into the attack
  • Arrest and prosecution of those responsible
  • Accountability for police officers who failed to intervene
  • Protection for activists and journalists in public spaces

The incident has sparked widespread calls for enhanced security measures and respect for civil rights during public demonstrations in Mombasa.