Kenyan police officer raises concerns about social media footages during protests

A Kenyan police officer, speaking anonymously in a social media video, has expressed concerns about the way Generation Z documents ongoing demonstrations.

Focus on Alleged Bias

The officer questioned the origin and purpose of the cameras used by young protesters. He suggested these devices might capture biased footage, focusing only on situations where police appear heavy-handed. As evidence, he pointed out how videos often show police using force against protesters, but rarely capture instances where protestors might initiate aggression.

The officer urged Gen Z to be more objective in their documentation, ensuring a balanced representation of events.

Public Backlash and Context

This statement sparked debate online. Many criticized the officer for complaining instead of advocating for police body cameras.

The officer’s comments come during a tense period in Kenya, with planned demonstrations targeting Jomo Kenyatta International Airport today, July 23rd, 2024. Authorities are taking security measures to ensure public safety and compliance with the law.

These demonstrations are part of ongoing protests against proposed tax increases in the 2024 Finance Bill. The youth, particularly Generation Z, have been at the forefront of these protests, leading to clashes with police and unrest in major cities.

The Power of Social Media

The digital space plays a critical role in documenting these events. Gen Z leverages social media to share real-time footage captured by protesters and shared widely. This has resulted in a significant number of videos showing confrontations between police and protesters.

These videos often depict officers using tear gas and, in some cases, live bullets, sparking public debate about police tactics.

Public Perception and Moving Forward

The Kenyan public has previously accused police of siding with the government and neglecting citizen rights. However, some officers have shown solidarity with protestors. An example is “Shakur the Cop,” who joined demonstrations and faced threats and abduction for his stance.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how both protestors and authorities navigate these tensions. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether social media documentation will provide a truly balanced picture of events.