Human Rights Groups Criticize DPP for Dropping Charges in Baby Pendo Case

Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International Kenya, have strongly condemned the Director of Public Prosecutions' decision to drop charges against eight of twelve police officers initially implicated in the 2017 murder of six-month-old Baby Samantha Pendo during post-election violence in Kisumu. Critics argue that the move, which leaves only four junior officers facing charges for crimes against humanity such as murder and rape, omits senior police commanders who allegedly bore significant responsibility for the deadly and violent operations. The amended charge sheet, reportedly revised without consultation with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, has also raised concerns for exposing victims and witnesses by making their identities public. The prosecution maintains that charges against the remaining officers were dropped due to lack of evidence, while one key suspect, a retired officer, remains at large. This case marks the first time Kenyan officers have been charged under the International Crimes Act, but rights groups warn that the decision undermines accountability and justice for the victims and their families. They are urging authorities to protect witness identities and adhere to proper victim protection protocols.