On Sunday, June 4, a form three student was shot and killed during demonstrations over persistent blackouts in Wajir Town.
The victim, according to a police report, was shot and killed close to the power offices where the demonstration was taking place.
Anti-riot cops were called in to interfere and maintain order after demonstrators, according to the police, were aggressive and damaged property.
The police report stated, in part, “They broke glasses, vandalized offices before anti-riot police intervened and dispersed them leading to running battles.”
Residents and business operators had staged a protest in the town, to demand action from the authorities over power blackouts that were affecting their businesses and lives.
Wajir West MP Yusuf Farah blamed the police for using excessive force on protestors, which led to the death of the student.
Farah also demanded action from the state over persistent blackouts in Wajir that affected businesses and other daily activities.
The residents of Wajir have every right to protest peacefully in response to the protracted power outages. On this, I agree with the crowd. Too long have we been fed misinformation, Muliro said.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) had been notified to look into the shooting and take appropriate measures, he continued.
His Wajir South counterpart Mohamed Adow also condemned the killing, calling for thorough investigations into the incident and ensuring that the family gets justice.
The student was among angry residents who blocked the main road in the town, lighting bonfires that paralysed activities in the town for over two hours.
The citizens of Wajir, according to businessman Abdi Mohamed, are asking the power agency why there isn’t a consistent supply of power there even if the locals pay taxes like the rest of Kenyans.
“Because it only lasts for a brief time, the electricity supply to this area is quite erratic. Additionally, there is rationing that has no justification, said Abdi Mohamed.
The event allegedly happened after the residents complained to the electricity distributor for more than a month but received no response.
While pledging to look into the situation and guarantee that the victim’s family receives justice, police on the other hand appealed for understanding and patience from the locals
