The High Court in Kajiado, Kenya, has ruled on the case involving the killing of Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif by Kenyan police officers in October 2022.
Justice Stella Mutuku declared the shooting arbitrary and unconstitutional, citing violations of Sharif’s rights including his right to life, equal benefit, dignity, and protection under the law.
The court ordered the Kenyan government to compensate Sharif’s family with 10 million Kenyan shillings for the loss of life. However, the monetary compensation was temporarily suspended for 30 days pending a potential appeal by the government.
In her ruling, Justice Mutuku criticized the Attorney General, Inspector General of Police, Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for delays in the investigation and for failing to provide updates to Sharif’s family. She directed these agencies to expedite the investigation and take appropriate disciplinary action against any police officers found responsible for Sharif’s death.
Arshad Sharif, who had fled Pakistan in July 2022 to evade arrest for criticizing the military, was fatally shot in Kajiado County. The police initially claimed they mistook Sharif’s vehicle, a Toyota Land Cruiser, for a stolen Mercedes Benz Sprinter van they were pursuing.
Justice Mutuku emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in handling such cases, reaffirming that Sharif’s rights were violated unjustly.
