Kenyans Mark Protest Anniversary with Mass Marches Amid Police Crackdown, Anger at Ruto
Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets on Wednesday to commemorate the first anniversary of last year’s deadly anti-government protests, with demonstrators voicing continued outrage over police brutality and President William Ruto’s economic policies. The protests, largely led by youth groups and rights activists, mark one year since the June 25, 2024, storming of Parliament during nationwide unrest triggered by tax hikes and worsening economic hardship. Rights groups say at least 60 people were killed by security forces during last year’s demonstrations. Despite fears of violence and intimidation, including attacks by state-backed gangs and heavy police presence, many demonstrators marched peacefully through cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa. Protesters carried Kenyan flags, white roses, and placards bearing the faces of those killed in last year’s protests, chanting slogans like “Ruto must go.” In Nairobi, some clashes broke out as demonstrators hurled stones and police responded with tear gas. Security forces barricaded key government buildings and blocked major roads, while many schools and businesses shut down for fear of violence. Calls to “occupy State House” — a reference to President Ruto’s official residence — circulated online, though protest leaders had appealed for nonviolence. Anger has been further inflamed by the recent death of a teacher in police custody and the use of armed motorbike-riding gangs known as “goons” to disperse peaceful protest groups last week. Observers say the growing discontent reflects deeper frustrations among Kenya’s youth, who face mounting economic pressure, high unemployment, and a widening trust gap with state institutions.
