🇰🇪 Kenya Protests Turn Deadly on Saba Saba Anniversary as Clashes Escalate Nationwide
At least 11 people have been killed and 567 arrested during anti-government protests in Kenya, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba uprising. What began as peaceful demonstrations for good governance and police reform spiraled into chaos as police opened fire on protestors, and dozens more were injured in violent confrontations.
🕯️ Marking Saba Saba: From 1990 Democracy Push to 2024 Unrest
Saba Saba (Swahili for "Seven Seven") marks July 7, 1990, when Kenyans launched mass protests demanding multi-party democracy. More than three decades later, young Kenyans — led by the so-called Gen Z — took to the streets demanding government accountability, justice for police brutality victims, and better governance.
⚠️ Casualties and Arrests Mount: Police Accused of Excessive Force
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11 civilians confirmed dead (including 2 from gunshot wounds at Eagle Nursing Home).
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567 arrests made across 17 of 47 counties.
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52 police officers injured, according to official reports.
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The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KHRC) reported 29 injuries, 37 arrests, and allegations of abductions.
“Police operated in plainclothes and unmarked vehicles,” said the KHRC, accusing them of collaborating with armed criminal gangs in Nairobi, Kajiado, Nakuru, Kiambu, and Eldoret.
🔥 Unrest in Major Towns: Fires, Roadblocks, and Shutdowns
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In Meru County, a shopping centre in Makutano was set ablaze.
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In Ol Kalou, a protester was shot dead, another severely injured.
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Roads to State House and Parliament were barricaded with razor wire.
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Long-distance buses were stranded 13km from Nairobi as police blocked entry.
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Schools advised students to stay home due to safety concerns.
🎙️ Raila Odinga Speaks Out, Cancels Appearance
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, arrested during the original Saba Saba protests in 1990, was expected to address crowds at Kamukunji Grounds. He cancelled his appearance due to roadblocks, but issued a powerful statement:
“Kenya has a rogue police force that shoots people with impunity, a force inherited from colonialists.”
He renewed calls for national dialogue on police and governance reform.
🧒 Gen Z Leads New Wave of Resistance
This wave of demonstrations has been primarily driven by youth, many of whom were also part of the anti-tax protests in 2023, which claimed at least 19 lives. Protesters are now rallying under banners of police accountability, justice, and economic dignity.
“We want the government to engage in dialogue with Gen-Zs,” said bus driver Humphrey Gumbishi, after being stranded with passengers for hours due to roadblocks.
🗣️ KHRC Offices Attacked Ahead of Protests
On Sunday, an armed gang stormed the KHRC headquarters in Nairobi, where a women-led press briefing was underway. The attackers chanted threats, destroyed property, and stole laptops and media equipment.
“They were carrying clubs and stones… they said there would be no protest,” said KHRC spokesman Ernest Cornel.