🇰🇪 Kenya Protests: Death Toll Rises to 31 as Calls for Justice Intensify
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has confirmed that the death toll from Monday’s anti-government protests has climbed to 31, sparking public outrage and demands for accountability. Over 100 people were injured, and 532 arrested in protests that rocked Nairobi and several other major cities.
The demonstrations—driven largely by Gen Z youth—were initially held to commemorate Kenya’s democratic struggle but rapidly escalated into violent confrontations across 17 counties. Protesters chanted slogans such as "Ruto must go" and "wantam", expressing anger over economic hardships and what they view as state repression.
Rising Tensions and Police Brutality
The protests follow the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody, an event that reignited widespread discontent just a year after deadly anti-tax demonstrations rocked the country.
Although the Kenya Police Service has only acknowledged 11 deaths, the KNCHR and the United Nations have condemned the use of lethal force by law enforcement. UN spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani criticized the use of live ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons, calling the police response "deeply troubling."
Among the victims was a 12-year-old schoolgirl struck by a stray bullet while in her home in Kiambu, near Nairobi.
Hospitals Attacked, Property Destroyed
At least two hospitals were reportedly damaged and looted during the unrest, with medical staff being harassed by unknown assailants. Public and private properties were vandalized by unidentified individuals, further escalating tensions.
Despite the chaos, Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen praised the police for what he termed their “restraint,” claiming the protests were infiltrated by criminal elements attempting a “coup.”
Opposition and Civil Society React
Opposition leaders have accused the government of unleashing armed gangs in unmarked vehicles to opposition strongholds. They are calling for a national boycott of businesses associated with President William Ruto’s administration, accusing the government of state-sponsored violence and extrajudicial killings.
“This regime is hostile. It cannot be reasoned with. It must be resisted. We will not rest. We will not retreat. We will not surrender,” the opposition said in a joint statement.
A Nation at a Crossroads
Chief Justice Martha Koome warned that continued violence risks tearing apart the fabric of Kenya’s democracy.
Since 2023, over 140 people have died in protest-related violence, according to The Star newspaper.
The demonstrations continue to shine a spotlight on economic inequality, police brutality, and the demand for accountable governance—issues that remain at the heart of Kenya’s current political crisis.