{UAH} Kenya police 'ready to use lethal force' against protesters

Kenya police 'ready to use lethal force' against protesters
6 June 2016

The opposition has been protesting on Mondays in recent weeks about
the make up of the electoral commission

Nairobi's police chief has warned opposition supporters not to take
part in Monday's protest in the Kenyan capital "if you value your
life".

Despite the warning, demonstrations have gone ahead.

The police shot dead three people in similar protests in May. They
said they were acting in self defence.

The opposition has been holding demonstrations on Mondays over the
make up of the electoral commission, which it says is biased.

The BBC's Abdinoor Aden says protesters are on the streets of Nairobi
and the situation is calm. However, in the western city of Kisumu
demonstrators have blocked a main road with burning tyres.

Police and demonstrators clashed in Nairobi last month
Nairobi police chief Japheth Koome said police were prepared to use
lethal force if necessary.

"No demonstration. That's the message. If you have nothing else to do,
sleep. It will not be allowed," Mr Koome told the BBC.

"That's why I'm questioning those who have intentions of
demonstrating... Don't come, then you start talking about police
brutality. Life is dear! Please, if you value your life, don't attempt
it that way. You will be dealt with firmly."

Last month, there were complaints of police brutality as officers were
pictured assaulting demonstrators in Nairobi.

The opposition Cord alliance wants the current members of the
electoral commission to resign ahead of next year's presidential
election.

Cord is complaining that they are biased in favour of the governing
Jubilee coalition and wants it replaced by a neutral body.

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