Human rights organizations report that at least 60 individuals lost their lives to security forces during weeks of protests led by youth in response to proposed tax increases last year.
In a notable display of resilience, thousands of Kenyans have taken to the streets to commemorate a year since a surge of antigovernment protests led to a dramatic storming of parliament. This demonstration comes amid concerns of potential clashes with state-sanctioned gangs and police brutality.
According to human rights advocates, the unrest last year, ignited by tax increase proposals and a grim economic situation for young people, resulted in at least 60 fatalities at the hands of law enforcement. On Wednesday, family members of the victims and activists organized peaceful protests to solemnly mark the anniversary of the most tragic day of the unrest.
Authorities erected barricades around government buildings using razor wire and blocked access to key routes leading into Nairobi’s central business hub.
Amidst the crowd of demonstrators, primarily young men brandishing Kenyan flags and holding placards depicting those who died last year, chants of “Ruto must go” echoed throughout, targeting President William Ruto, whose tax proposal sparked the previous protests.
“I’m here as a young Kenyan to voice our rights for those who were murdered last year. The police are supposed to protect us, yet they harm us,” shared Eve, a 24-year-old protester, with the AFP news agency.
Angel Mbuthia, chair of the youth league for the opposition Jubilee Party, emphasized, “It’s crucial for the youth to remember June 25th, honoring those who fought for good governance and looked like them.”
Concerns Over Police Conduct
This solemn anniversary arrives amid rising outrage against police violence, particularly following the recent death of 31-year-old blogger and educator Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody after his arrest for criticizing a high-ranking officer.
In connection to Ojwang’s death, six individuals, including three police officers, have been charged with murder, all of whom have pleaded not guilty.
Authorities maintain that protests are allowed as long as they remain “peaceful and unarmed.” However, last week, a peaceful group of demonstrators faced an assault from a large gang of motorbike riders—nicknamed “goons”—equipped with whips and clubs, reportedly collaborating with the police.
On Tuesday, embassies for the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other Western nations issued a collective statement on X, calling for the facilitation of peaceful demonstrations and urging against violence.
“The presence of plainclothes officers in unmarked vehicles undermines public trust,” the statement noted, echoing concerns raised by rights activists regarding unidentified police at previous protests.
In a statement on Tuesday, Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed that any violations of policing standards would be addressed through official government channels, including the judiciary and parliament.
“The ministry emphasizes that effective diplomatic relationships thrive on mutual respect, open communication, and acknowledgment of each other’s unique governance circumstances,” it stated.
Additionally, discontent has surged among youth concerning President Ruto, who assumed office in 2022 with promises of swift economic advancement. Many are now frustrated by ongoing stagnation, rampant corruption, and high taxation, even after protests last year compelled Ruto to retract a controversial finance bill. His administration is now trying to avert direct tax increases this year.
Moreover, the alarming frequency of disappearances among government critics—over 80 counted by rights groups since last year’s protests, with many still unaccounted for—has led to accusations against Ruto of steering Kenya back towards the oppressive era of the late 20th century. Despite previously vowing to end abductions, Ruto remained firm in a speech on Tuesday, declaring his support for the police.
“You cannot use force against the police or insult them. Threatening the police is a threat to our nation,” he cautioned protesters.