Kenya Protests: Casualties Rise Amid Ongoing Demonstrations
Initial reports from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) indicated 11 deaths and 29 injuries following anti-government protests on July 7, 2025, observed as "Saba Saba Day." Subsequent reports from the KNCHR, other human rights organizations, and the Associated Press indicate a higher toll.
Increased Casualties Reported:
The death toll from the July 7 protests has risen to at least 31.
The number of injured stands at 107 for the July 7 protests, with some reports citing over 553 injuries across the broader protest period since June.
Over 532 arrests have been reported, and the KNCHR has documented at least two enforced disappearances.
Context of the 2025 Protests:
The 2025 Kenyan protests represent a continuation of youth-led demonstrations that commenced in June 2025. These demonstrations are linked to several factors:
Death of Albert Omondi Ojwang: The death of blogger and teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang in police custody in early June 2025 served as a trigger. Ojwang had been arrested for "false publication" in connection with a social media post concerning a senior police official. Police initially attributed his death to self-inflicted causes.
Police Conduct: Public discontent has been noted regarding police brutality, unlawful killings, and alleged abductions and torture of government critics and activists. Incidents such as the shooting of a civilian during a June 17, 2025 protest have intensified this concern.
Economic Conditions: Economic hardship, including rising living costs, remains a significant grievance.
Corruption Concerns: Perceptions of government corruption and accountability for public funds are widespread.
Political Dissatisfaction: Demonstrations have included calls for the resignation of President William Ruto's government, reflecting broader dissatisfaction with the political system.
"Saba Saba" Day: The July 7 protests coincided with the 35th anniversary of the 1990 "Saba Saba" pro-democracy protests, which contributed to Kenya's transition to a multiparty democracy.
Security Forces' Actions:
Security forces have been observed employing tactics to disperse protesters, including the use of live ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons. Reports indicate police blockades on major roads leading into Nairobi and other cities, leading to widespread business closures. Human rights organizations, including ARTICLE 19 and Al Jazeera, have reported alleged cooperation between police and armed groups targeting protesters. President William Ruto has stated intentions to address the unrest, issuing directives to police regarding individuals involved in looting and property damage. This statement has drawn criticism from human rights advocates.
Human Rights Oversight:
The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) has expressed concern over the fatalities and called for investigations into reported violations. The KNCHR, Amnesty International Kenya, and other civil society groups have consistently urged police restraint and accountability for human rights violations. They have also called on the government to address the underlying issues driving the protests.
The situation in Kenya remains under observation as calls for accountability persist.
