Kenyans returned to the streets to remember victims of last year’s deadly finance bill protests.
What began peacefully turned violent, with police accused of killing and injuring protesters again.
Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets again on Wednesday, marking one year since the deadly protests against a controversial finance bill backed by President William Ruto. What began as a peaceful National Day of Remembrance quickly spiralled into chaos, with fresh reports of police violence and mounting casualties.
At least 82 people were confirmed dead during last year’s protests, which was triggered by widespread opposition to Ruto’s proposed financial reforms. The demonstrations this week were intended to honour those who lost their lives and to renew the call for justice and accountability from the government.
However, peaceful gatherings soon turned violent in Nairobi and 26 other cities, including Mombasa. Police forces reportedly used tear gas, water cannons, and excessive force to disperse demonstrators. Some protesters were detained and transported in police vehicles, while roads leading to key government buildings, including parliament and the president’s office, were heavily barricaded.
The Communications Authority of Kenya ordered all media outlets to halt live broadcasts of the youth-led protests, raising concerns about press freedom and the public’s right to information. The move was widely criticized by civil rights organizations.
Amnesty Kenya Executive Director Irungu Houghton, confirmed to Reuters that 16 fatalities had been verified by 8:30 p.m., many of whom were reportedly killed by the police. “Most were killed by police,” Houghton said, noting that at least five individuals had died from gunshot wounds.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) also verified the deaths, initially reporting eight people killed, all allegedly from police bullets. The commission further disclosed that over 400 injuries had been recorded, affecting protesters, police officers, and journalists alike.
In response, a coalition of advocacy groups, including the Law Society of Kenya, the Police Reforms Working Group, and the Kenya Medical Association, issued a joint statement urging law enforcement agencies to show restraint and respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.
The escalating crisis has intensified public outcry against President Ruto, with chants demanding his resignation echoing across various cities. The protests, predominantly driven by Kenya’s youth, highlight a growing dissatisfaction with economic hardship, perceived government overreach, and the violent suppression of dissent.
As the situation continues to unfold, human rights groups and international observers are calling on the Kenyan government to ensure accountability for state violence and uphold democratic principles.
