Nairobi, Kenya — At least eight people have been killed and over 400 injured during widespread protests across Kenya against President William Ruto’s government, exactly one year after a similarly deadly wave of anti-government demonstrations in 2024.
Thousands of citizens poured into the streets of Nairobi and other cities on Wednesday, chanting slogans like “Ruto must go” and waving tree branches to symbolize their peaceful dissent. However, the protests quickly turned violent as police forces clashed with demonstrators attempting to march on key government sites, including the president’s official residence.
Government Crackdown and Judicial Reversal
The government issued a ban on live TV and radio coverage of the protests, which the High Court in Nairobi later overturned, reaffirming press freedom. President Ruto, who was attending a burial in Kilifi, urged demonstrators to safeguard national peace:
“Protests should not be to destroy peace in Kenya. We do not have another country to go to when things go wrong.”
Despite his appeal, security forces erected barricades and deployed razor wire on roads leading to State House and Parliament, pushing back crowds with tear gas and reported use of live ammunition.
Casualties and Medical Response
A joint statement by the Kenya Medical Association, Law Society of Kenya, and Police Reforms Working Group reported:
- 8 confirmed deaths
- 400 injuries, with 83 needing specialized treatment
- 8 gunshot wounds
- 3 injured police officers
Amnesty Kenya reported a higher death toll of 16, citing concerns over escalating police brutality.
Voices from the Streets
Among the demonstrators was Amina Mude, a mother protesting for her children’s future:
“I feel like as a country we’re not going in the right direction… It’s high time the leadership listens to us.”
In the capital, scenes of chaos unfolded as tear gas filled the air, businesses shut down, and symbolic tributes were left at Parliament gates — including wreaths and placards bearing the names of last year’s victims.
Backdrop of Rising Discontent
The protests reflect deepening public frustration over economic hardship, rising education costs, and perceived government inaction. The unrest underscores growing pressure on President Ruto’s administration to address inequality and governance issues as Kenya grapples with a fragile democratic climate.
