KNCHR demands accountability after All Saints Cathedral incident

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has called for swift and transparent investigations into the disruption of a civil society meeting at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi by suspected goons.

KNCHR warned that such incidents pose a serious threat to constitutional freedoms and democratic governance.

In a statement issued following the June 12 incident, the commission strongly condemned the attack on the peaceful gathering, which had been convened to discuss the implications of the 2026-27 national budget on ordinary Kenyans.

The disruption occurred when a group of individuals reportedly forced their way into the church compound, causing panic among participants, assaulting some attendees and destroying conference materials before police officers intervened to restore order.

KNCHR said the attack violated fundamental rights guaranteed under the constitution and called on authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

“The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights strongly condemns the disruption of a peaceful civil society meeting at All Saints Cathedral convened to discuss matters of public interest, specifically the national budget. Such actions violate constitutional rights and undermine democratic governance,” the commission said.

The rights body emphasised said the constitution protects freedoms of conscience, expression, association and peaceful assembly, noting that these rights must be respected by both state and non-state actors.

“The KNCHR reiterates that Articles 32, 33, 36 and 37 of the constitution guarantee the rights to freedom of conscience, expression, association and peaceful assembly. These rights must be respected and protected by all state and non-state actors,” the statement added.

The commission praised the National Police Service (NPS) for its prompt response to the incident and welcomed the ongoing investigations.

It, however, stressed that accountability must extend beyond those who physically carried out the attack.

“Those responsible for planning, financing, organising, or carrying out the attack must be identified and held accountable,” KNCHR said.

The incident has raised concerns among human rights defenders and civil society organisations, who have increasingly warned about shrinking civic space and growing intolerance toward dissenting voices.

The meeting at the cathedral had brought together stakeholders to examine the impact of government spending proposals and discuss issues affecting citizens.

KNCHR also expressed concern over reports that some young people may have been mobilised to disrupt the event, describing the practice as an abuse of youth and a threat to democratic participation.

“The exploitation of young people for intimidation or violence undermines their rights, dignity and democratic participation,” the commission said.

At the same time, the commission encouraged young people to remain engaged in lawful civic activities and to reject involvement in acts that undermine democratic processes.

KNCHR said it will closely monitor the progress of the investigations and expects a prompt, impartial and transparent process to prevent impunity.