Saba Saba March Turns Violent in Nairobi as Police Clash with Protesters
Today's Saba Saba march in Nairobi, commemorating the pro-democracy uprising of July 7, 1990, escalated into violence as police fired on advancing protesters near central venues. A Reuters reporter on the scene witnessed one man lying motionless on the ground, raising fears of fatalities.
The protests were reignited last month following the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody, an incident that has fueled accusations of excessive force by authorities. According to human rights groups, at least 19 people have been killed during recent demonstrations, serving as a stark reminder of deep-seated civic dissatisfaction and calls for government accountability.
Interior Minister Muchiri Nyaga has controversially labeled the ongoing protest movement as "terrorism," a declaration that has drawn sharp criticism from activists, legal experts, and international observers concerned about the erosion of civil liberties in Kenya.
The escalating situation is being closely watched across East Africa, given Kenya's significant regional influence. A further escalation of violence or suppression of protests could severely impact regional perceptions of democratic norms and significantly affect Kenya’s international standing.
I’m Adedayo Obadina
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