Kisumu City. [Photo|Kisumudalaevents.blogspot.in]
The county government of Kisumu and a civil society group have struck a deal that will see a monument built in the county to honour the slain post-election protestors in the recently concluded elections.
According to Pamoja Trust Chief Executive Officer Steve Ouma, the decision was reached at after the national government failed to condemn the police following the killings and torture they committed.
“We have agreed with the County Government of Kisumu to have a memorial in respect to all those who were killed and maimed during the violence that happened in August and October," said Ouma as quoted by Nation.
“It is sad that while it is well-known that the police were responsible for the incidents, the government has failed to come out to condemn them, therefore we must have this monument,” Ouma added.
Confirming the deal, Kisumu Press Unit Director Aloyce Ager said a feasibility study was being conducted before the construction kicks off.
“The county public's work office is already carrying out the feasibility study to come up with the cost and once it is complete, the building will begin immediately. We want to honour all our brothers and sisters who were killed by police while fighting for their rights,” Ager said.
The plaque which is expected to be built at Jomo Kenyatta Sports Grounds.
“The reasons why we need this monument apart of honouring the innocent citizens is to pass the message that what happened was a shame to any civil society. With the monument in place we expect the government to come out and apologise to Kisumu people,” Ouma noted.
"There are many young people whose lives have been affected forever because of the atrocities. The State must put funds together to ensure they have an upkeep for the rest of their lives,” he added.