The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has released a progress report on investigations into deaths linked to the 2024 Anti-Finance Bill protests, revealing that only three cases have so far reached the courts while dozens remain under investigation.
In a statement issued by IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Wanjiku Mwangi, the authority said it had registered a total of 62 death cases arising from the 2024 Anti-Finance Bill and Gen-Z demonstrations.
“As of June 2026, three cases are pending before court, three have been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for review and direction, one case is undergoing internal legal review, while 46 cases remain at different stages of investigation,” said Mwangi.
The authority further disclosed that four cases were closed after investigations, while five others were terminated following directions from the ODPP.
Addressing concerns over why only a handful of cases have proceeded to court, IPOA explained that investigations involving protest-related deaths are often complex and depend heavily on forensic examinations and ballistic analyses conducted by institutions such as the National Forensic Laboratory and the Government Chemist.
“The completion of investigations is often complex and requires extensive processes involving multiple external agencies. Some investigations may also be delayed due to insufficient evidence,” the authority stated.
IPOA emphasized that not every completed investigation automatically results in prosecution, noting that the decision to charge suspects depends on the strength of evidence and recommendations from the ODPP.
“The three cases currently before court are those in which the evidentiary and prosecutorial thresholds have been met, allowing criminal proceedings to commence,” the statement added.
The authority also provided an update on deaths linked to subsequent demonstrations. IPOA said it had registered 27 death cases arising from the June 2025 Gen-Z Memorial protests, with one case already before court and 26 still under active investigation.
Additionally, 38 death cases were recorded during the July 2025 Saba Saba demonstrations. Of these, two cases were closed internally, while 36 remain under investigation.
According to IPOA, the three major public order events have collectively generated 127 death cases, placing significant demands on investigative resources.
On cases already submitted to the ODPP, the authority said it would not disclose specific details while prosecutorial reviews are ongoing.
“The specific names of cases currently before the ODPP are generally not disclosed publicly in order to safeguard the integrity of the review process, protect victims and witnesses, and avoid prejudicing potential criminal proceedings,” IPOA noted.
The oversight body reiterated its commitment to police accountability and justice for victims’ families, saying it has adopted several measures to expedite investigations.
“To sustain and enhance the delivery of justice, IPOA has put in place strategies including fast-tracking investigations, implementing a backlog reduction plan, recruiting additional investigators, and strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders,” said Mwangi.
The authority maintained that it remains committed to ensuring accountability and justice in all cases arising from public demonstrations across the country.
