At least eleven people have been killed in Kenya after security forces clashed with demonstrators in the latest wave of nationwide anti-government protests. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights said 29 others were injured in the unrest, which has gripped much of the country in recent weeks.
Protesters have taken to the streets to denounce rising living costs, poor governance, and repeated allegations of police brutality. They are also calling for the resignation of President William Ruto.
On Sunday, authorities imposed some of the strictest measures yet, blocking major roads into the capital, Nairobi, and sealing off much of the city centre. Police prevented vehicles and many pedestrians from entering unless they were deemed to be carrying out essential duties.
The confrontations turned violent as demonstrators lit bonfires, threw stones, and defied dispersal orders. Police responded by firing live ammunition and tear gas. A Reuters reporter witnessed one man lying motionless in a pool of blood in the Nairobi suburb of Kangemi after officers opened fire on protesters. Another young man, bleeding heavily, said he had been shot as he was carried away by fellow demonstrators.
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Protests were recorded across 17 of Kenya’s 47 counties, reflecting widespread anger over the cost of living and lack of accountability. The demonstrations coincided with Saba Saba Day—7 July—a date marking the anniversary of the landmark 1990 protests that demanded an end to the one-party state under then-President Daniel arap Moi, who was a mentor to Mr Ruto. Those demonstrations eventually led to the introduction of multiparty democracy in Kenya in the early 1990s.
Observers and historians say the current movement draws inspiration from that era. Macharia Munene, a professor of history and international relations at United States International University Africa, described the protests as evidence that “there is no reversing the Gen Z Saba Saba-like spirit.” He warned that government attempts to criminalise dissent would only deepen public frustration.
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen has insisted that the government will not tolerate violence, pledging that police will be fully deployed to restore order and protect property. Last month, Murkomen authorised officers to “shoot on sight” anyone attacking police stations after several were set ablaze.
The recent wave of unrest was sparked by the death of a blogger in police custody in June. Public anger intensified when a police officer was filmed shooting a civilian at close range during a protest on 17 June. Just days later, on 25 June, at least 19 people were killed during demonstrations marking the anniversary of last year’s anti-tax protests.
Kenya’s 2024 protests have become some of the deadliest in the country’s recent history, culminating last month in crowds storming parliament. More than 60 people were killed in that incident alone.
Despite the heavy police presence and harsh tactics, many Kenyans say they will continue to protest until their demands for reforms, accountability, and economic relief are met.