Kenya Marks Anniversary of Deadly Protests Amid Fears of Violence

Strategic Insights -

Thousands of people in Kenya gathered to commemorate the first anniversary of the peak of antigovernment demonstrations, which erupted last year over tax rises and the dire economic situation for young Kenyans. The protests were met with force by state-backed gangs and police violence, resulting in the deaths of at least 60 people. Activists and families of victims called for peaceful demonstrations, but police blocked main roads and barricaded government buildings, citing concerns over potential violence. Protesters, mostly young men, waved Kenyan flags and placards with pictures of demonstrators killed last year, chanting slogans against President William Ruto, whose proposed tax hikes triggered the protests.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least 60 people were killed by security forces during protests last year over tax rises and economic stagnation, according to rights groups.
  • Police blocked main roads and barricaded government buildings in the capital city, Nairobi, despite calls for peaceful demonstrations.
  • Protesters, mostly young men, waved Kenyan flags and placards with pictures of demonstrators killed last year and chanted slogans against President William Ruto.
  • Activists and families of victims urged protesters to remain peaceful and mark the anniversary without violence.
  • The protests come amid growing resentment among young people towards President Ruto, who has been accused of corruption and high taxes.
  • Rights campaigners condemned the presence of unidentified police officers at protests last year, and the use of plain-clothed officers in unmarked vehicles.
  • Six people, including three police officers, were charged with murder over the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in custody.
  • The embassies of Western nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, released a joint statement urging all involved to facilitate peaceful demonstrations and refrain from violence.

Statistics:

  • At least 60 people were killed by security forces during protests last year.
  • Over 80 government critics have gone missing since last year's protests, with dozens still unaccounted for.
  • Six people, including three police officers, were charged with murder over the death of Albert Ojwang in custody.
  • The protests come amid growing discontent among young people towards President Ruto's government, with many disappointed by continued stagnation, corruption, and high taxes.

Sources:

  • Al Jazeera, "What's behind the widespread protests in Kenya" (https://www.aljazeera.com/program/inside-story/2024/6/22/whats-behind-the-widespread-protests-in-kenya)
  • Al Jazeera, "Kenyan police shoot bystander at close range during latest protests" (https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2025/6/18/kenyan-police-shoot-bystander-at-close-range-during-latest-protests)
  • AFP news agency, "Kenya: Thousands protest one year after deadliest day of unrest"