Sixteen Killed, Hundreds Injured in Kenya’s Nationwide Anti-Government Protests
Demonstrations mark one year since deadly youth-led protests against police brutality and corruption
- At least 16 people have been killed and over 400 injured
- . Protesters clashed with police in several regions
- The protests have drawn international attention
At least 16 people have been killed and over 400 injured during widespread anti-government protests across Kenya, according to reports from Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
The nationwide demonstrations, which erupted on Wednesday, were held to commemorate last year’s youth-led uprising against government corruption and police violence. Protesters clashed with police in several regions, with the worst violence reported in the capital, Nairobi. Victims included civilians, police officers, and journalists—many injured by live ammunition, rubber bullets, and physical beatings.
In downtown Nairobi, tear gas filled the air as police attempted to disperse crowds using batons and chemical agents. Protesters responded by erecting burning barricades and chanting anti-government slogans, including “Ruto must go”—a direct rebuke of President William Ruto, whose administration’s tax proposals sparked last year’s deadly protests.
Thousands poured into the streets, waving Kenyan flags and carrying placards bearing the faces of those killed during the 2024 demonstrations, where at least 60 people reportedly died at the hands of security forces.
“I came here today as a young Kenyan to protest for justice,” said Eve, a 24-year-old demonstrator, speaking to AFP. “The police are supposed to protect us, but instead they kill us. We won’t be silent.”
Angel Mbuthia, youth league chair of the opposition Jubilee Party, underscored the symbolic weight of the protests. “It is extremely important that young people mark June 25th. They are honoring those who looked like them, spoke like them, and died fighting for good governance.”
Beyond Nairobi, protests were also reported in towns such as Matuu, about 100km (62 miles) from the capital, where demonstrators and security forces again clashed.
The protests have drawn international attention, with human rights groups urging the Kenyan government to exercise restraint and uphold citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly. As tensions remain high, calls for justice, reform, and accountability continue to echo across the nation.
