What happens when law enforcement officers openly break the law? That is the question millions of Kenyans, led by Base Yetu and its CEO Nick Mararo, have been left asking.
This is after a disturbing video emerged from Nandi Hills showing police officers storming a pool base, ordering patrons to lie down, before allegedly beating them as helpless players watched in fear.
The clip, which has since triggered outrage online, has reignited debate on police conduct and the safety of youth recreation spaces across the country.
Outrage over pool base
Reacting to the incident, Mararo warned that what happened in Nandi Hills should not be treated as a one off case, insisting it could happen anywhere in Kenya if not condemned and addressed.
LipaLikes CEO Nick Mararo speaks during a past event. Photo: Nick Mararo Source: Facebook
“What happened in Nandi Hills is not isolated, and can re occur in Nyeri or any other part of Kenya,” Mararo said.
The Base Yetu CEO explained that pool bases play a critical role in building youth communities, creating opportunities, and keeping young people engaged in positive activities. According to him, attacking such spaces is equivalent to attacking talent, livelihoods, and youth empowerment efforts.
“Pool bases play a critical role in youth gentrification, social cohesion, and local enterprise. Attacking them is an attack on talent, livelihoods, and positive youth engagement and is steps back in the efforts by Base Yetu and other organizations that root for empowerment through sports,” he stated.
Base Yetu speaks out
In a separate statement, Base Yetu strongly condemned the incident, describing it as an affront to both pool bases and their patrons.
“Base Yetu strongly condemns the affront and attack on Pool bases and their patrons, as exemplified in the unfortunate Nandi Hills incident,” the statement reads in parts.
Nick Mararo condemns Nandi Hills saga.
The organisation added that pool sports are a major part of youth engagement and community building, urging leaders and authorities to protect such spaces rather than criminalise them.
“Pool sports are a major component of youth gentrification and community, and we should respect and offer protection to such places whilst also appreciating the local entrepreneurs who build capacity and create a community,” the statement added.
Mararo also called on leaders, authorities and partners to unite in condemning attacks on pool bases, saying safety must be guaranteed for both patrons and operators.
“I call on leaders, authorities and partners to unanimously condemn attacks on pool bases and work together to ensure safety for patrons and operators across the country,” he said.
As the clip continues to spread, Kenyans are now waiting to see whether action will be taken against the officers involved, and whether pool bases across the country will be recognised as safe spaces for youth empowerment rather than targets for intimidation.
