August 2, 2025
World

11 Killed, Dozens Injured in Kenya’s Anti-Government Protests

Nairobi, July 8, 2025 — At least 11 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured following widespread anti-government protests that rocked parts of Kenya during the annual Saba Saba demonstrations.

The protests, which took place on Sunday and Monday, were largely driven by public outrage over the custodial death of popular online activist Albert Ojwang, who was allegedly tortured while in police detention. Protesters also cited economic hardship, allegations of government corruption, and growing discontent over police brutality as key reasons for the mass demonstrations.

Violent clashes between security forces and demonstrators broke out in Nairobi, Eldoret, Nyeri, Nakuru, Embu, and other towns. Eyewitnesses reported that police used live ammunition, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse crowds, leading to chaos and multiple casualties.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) confirmed that 11 civilians were killed during the protests, while 29 others sustained serious injuries. The police also reported injuries to at least 52 officers during the confrontations.

In Nairobi’s Kangemi area, police reportedly opened fire on protesters, leaving at least two people dead and several wounded. Footage from local media showed protesters fleeing as gunfire echoed through residential neighborhoods, while makeshift roadblocks and burning tyres brought traffic to a standstill.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen, reacting to the protests, insisted that the government would not tolerate threats to national security. He accused certain political actors of using the unrest to destabilize the country and reiterated the government’s commitment to law and order.

The Saba Saba protest, which commemorates the July 7, 1990 pro-democracy uprising, has become a symbolic date for civic expression in Kenya. However, this year’s edition was marked by heightened tension, following last month’s protests in which at least 16 people were killed and hundreds injured under similar circumstances.

Human rights groups have condemned the excessive use of force by security operatives and called for immediate, independent investigations into the killings. Amnesty International Kenya urged authorities to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression, while also demanding justice for victims of police violence.

As the country grapples with political and economic uncertainty, the mounting toll from recurring protests has sparked fears of further instability if dialogue between the government and civil society groups is not urgently pursued.

The situation remains tense, with more demonstrations anticipated in the coming days. Security forces have been placed on high alert as human rights organizations and global observers continue to monitor developments closely.