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{
    "id": 1461589,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1461589/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 33,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Ndhiwa, ODM",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Martin Owino",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": " Hon. Speaker, pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 44(2)(c), I rise to request for a statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Health regarding the harmful effects of chemical agents such as tear gas and other irritants used by law enforcement agencies. The recent demonstrations led by young people, often referred to as ‘Generation Z’, have brought to light the pressing calls for substantial reforms and the elimination of socio- economic inequalities affecting the people. Those protests, aimed at prompting transformative action from the Government, have been met with excessive crowd control measures by the police, most notably the indiscriminate use of tear gas and water cannons which has also been extended to residential areas and primary schools in close proximity. This has exposed vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions to disproportionate health risks. Scientific research has shown that exposure to tear gas and other irritants can cause a wide range of health issues ranging from acute to long-term effects. The acute effects have been said to include severe irritation to the eyes, skin and respiratory system, while long-term effects include glaucoma, blindness, respiratory failure and even death due to chemical burns to the lungs and cannister injuries. Further, in the law of war…"
}