Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets on Wednesday to mark the anniversary of the storming of parliament during anti-government demonstrations in Kenya, last year.
Despite fears of state-backed gangs and police violence, protesters gathered in downtown Nairobi, waving Kenyan flags and placards with pictures of demonstrators killed last year. They chanted “Ruto must go,” referring to President William Ruto, whose proposed tax hikes triggered the youth-led protests.
At least 60 people were killed by security forces in weeks of protests over tax rises and the dire economic situation for young Kenyans, rights groups say. Activists and families of victims called for peaceful demonstrations to mark the anniversary of the deadliest day of unrest.
Eve, a 24-year-old woman, emphasized the importance of protesting, saying, “I’ve come here as a Kenyan youth to protest, it is our right for the sake of our fellow Kenyans who were killed last year. The police are here… they are supposed to protect us, but they kill us.”
Angel Mbuthia, chair of the youth league for the opposition Jubilee Party, added, “It is extremely important that the young people mark June 25th because they lost people who look like them, who speak like them… who are fighting for good governance.” Police blocked main roads leading into the capital’s central business district, while government buildings were barricaded with razor wire.
The anniversary comes amid growing anger over police brutality, particularly after 31-year-old blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang was killed in custody earlier this month following his arrest for criticizing a senior officer.
Six people, including three police officers, were charged with murder over Ojwang’s killing, and all pleaded not guilty. Police have said protests are permitted as long as they are “peaceful and unarmed.”
However, a group of peaceful protesters was attacked last week by motorbike-riding “goons” armed with whips and clubs, working in tandem with the police.
The US, UK, Canada, and other Western nations released a joint statement urging all involved to “facilitate peaceful demonstrations and refrain from violence.” The statement also noted that “the use of plain-clothed officers in unmarked vehicles erodes public trust.”
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded, saying any policing violations would be addressed through government institutions, including parliament and the judiciary. President Ruto has faced growing resentment among young people, who feel disillusioned by continued stagnation, corruption, and high taxes.
Ruto previously promised an end to abductions but was unapologetic in a speech, pledging to “stand by” the police and warning protesters, “You cannot use force against the police or insult, or threaten the police. You are threatening our nation.”
The protests highlight the ongoing tensions between the Kenyan government and its citizens, particularly the youth, who are demanding better governance and economic opportunities.