Last month, as Kenyans took to the streets to protest the now-withdrawn Finance Bill, Jackson Kuria Kihara, also known as Shakur, joined the demonstrators to oppose the controversial bill and the high cost of living in the country.....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Kuria, an officer stationed at Kamiti Medium Security Prison with five years of service, was identified among the demonstrators in Nairobi. With a placard in hand, he was photographed boldly protesting in his work gear under the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill.
“My conviction to protest was fueled by the high cost of living in the country and the bill, which was going to make things worse for us. Many of us cops suffer in silence because of our welfare,” he said.
The incident has sparked debate about the rights of public servants to engage in political activism and the implications for freedom of expression in the country.
“A lot of people found it bold that a cop was protesting. Most of us have a difficult time; some even commit suicide because of depression. They cannot question anything, yet they are overworked and underpaid.
When you speak out, you are victimized, like me. Some get transferred or interdicted,” he said. Kuria knew he would be targeted, having seen colleagues suffer for speaking out about welfare issues before.
“I knew what was coming my way and the effects of my decision to protest. While some colleagues find my decision bold, others do not, leading to victimization,” he said.
Kuria’s situation shows the harsh realities faced by many police officers in Kenya. The high cost of living, inadequate pay, and poor working conditions have long been a source of discontent among the ranks.
Officers often find themselves in a precarious position, unable to voice their grievances for fear of reprisal. Kuria’s bold stance has brought these issues to the forefront, highlighting the urgent need for reforms within the police force.
“I was victimized at work to the point where I was told to eat convict’s food while my case was in progress. Imagine going through that for peacefully fighting for your rights. Is speaking against the high cost of living a crime?” he added.
The use of excessive force is ingrained in the culture of the Kenyan state police. Many Kenyans have been killed or maimed by police officers in efforts to disperse public assemblies since colonial times and throughout the country’s political history. This legacy of violence continues to plague the force, with recent incidents further eroding public trust.
“Innocent and unarmed people were killed by rogue and trigger-happy cops. They should all be held accountable. Cops should respect lawful orders, and you have a right to decline an unlawful order, like the killing of innocent people,” he said.
Kuria’s dismissal has sparked a broader conversation about the role of police officers in society and the need for systemic reforms to address police violence and ensure accountability. Several reforms have been proposed or are in progress to mitigate police violence in Kenya, aiming to transform the culture within the force and restore public confidence.
Jackson Kuria’s advocacy and personal sacrifices shed light on the urgent need for these reforms to protect both the public and the police officers who serve them.
He expressed no regret for joining the demonstrations, adding that he did nothing wrong by protesting to hold the government accountable. According to him, he will continue to use his voice to fight for a better Kenya.
“I still believe that the president is not listening to Kenyans. I urge Gen Z not to give up and to continue fighting until their cries are heard,” he said. Kuria’s dismissal for violating Rule 124 of the Kamiti Medium Security Prison regulations has not deterred him from his mission...CONTINUE READING>>
