Deadly Clashes Erupted Across Kenya as Citizens Mark Anniversary of 2024 Protests
At least 8 people were killed and more than 400 injured on Wednesday, June 25, as Kenyans took to the streets to mark the one-year anniversary of the 2024 anti-government protests. Demonstrators in cities nationwide clashed with police in a wave of unrest over state corruption, economic hardship, and police brutality.
According to Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, injuries were caused by live bullets, rubber bullets, and beatings. Victims include protesters, police officers, and journalists.
Remembering the Victims of 2024
The protests were held to honor those killed during last year’s demonstrations against tax hikes, where human rights watchdogs estimate 60 people were slain by security forces. In Nairobi, protestors waved flags and carried signs with images of the deceased while chanting slogans like "Ruto Must Go."
“It is our right to protest for our fallen brothers and sisters,” said Eve, a 24-year-old demonstrator. “The police are meant to protect us—not harm us.”
Angel Mbuthia, youth chair of the opposition Jubilee Party, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of young people taking a stand against injustice.
Violent Clashes and a Crackdown on Media
In Nairobi, government buildings were barricaded, and police used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds. In other regions including Mombasa, Kitengela, and Nyeri, similar demonstrations were met with force. In Kikuyu, protestors reportedly torched a courthouse.
The government swiftly moved to suppress coverage, suspending live media broadcasts and restricting access to Telegram. Local station KTN was pulled off air.
Mounting Tensions Over Police Conduct
The protests follow the recent killing of Albert Ojwang, a blogger who died in police custody after being arrested for criticizing a senior officer. Six individuals, including three police officers, have been charged with his murder.
Although police claim protests are legal if "peaceful and unarmed," eyewitnesses reported motorbike-riding gangs—allegedly backed by police—attacking unarmed protesters.
International and Domestic Responses
Embassies from the U.S., U.K., and Canada urged restraint and condemned the use of plain-clothed officers. Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs countered that diplomatic partnerships require mutual respect.
Growing Disillusionment with President Ruto
President William Ruto, elected in 2022, now faces mounting public outrage over stalled economic progress and corruption. Despite canceling last year’s unpopular finance bill, young Kenyans remain disillusioned.
Over 80 disappearances of government critics have been reported since last year. Ruto, who once promised to end abductions, struck a defiant tone Tuesday, vowing to support law enforcement.
“This is not just about politics,” said one activist. “It’s about dignity, justice, and the future of Kenya.”
