Reporting by Suleman Chitera for Malawi Freedom Network.
NAIROBI, Kenya — The death toll from ongoing anti-government protests in Kenya has risen to at least 31, according to a statement released by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR). The protests, which erupted during commemorations of Saba Saba Day on July 7, have also left at least 107 people wounded and more than 500 arrested, raising concerns about escalating violence and human rights violations in the country.
The KNCHR, which had earlier reported 10 deaths and 29 injuries, said the revised figures reflect the worsening situation on the ground. The commission also reported two cases of forced disappearance, adding to growing alarm over state response to the protests.
Violent clashes broke out between protesters and security forces in Nairobi and the city of Eldoret, with reports of police allegedly working alongside armed gangs wielding machetes and spears. These groups, according to KNCHR, were involved in the brutal suppression of demonstrators and the widespread destruction of property, including looting and damage to supermarkets.
“We strongly condemn all human rights violations and urge accountability from all responsible parties, including the police, civilians, and all other stakeholders,” read the KNCHR statement.
Monday’s protest coincided with Saba Saba Day — a significant date in Kenyan political history that marks the July 7, 1990, uprising against one-party rule under the late President Daniel arap Moi. It was on this day that Kenyans rose to demand multi-party democracy, a struggle that has since been remembered annually.
This year’s demonstrations, however, come on the back of over a year of youth-led protests ignited by the government’s push for tax hikes in June 2024. Demonstrators have expressed growing frustration over the rising cost of living, corruption, economic mismanagement, and police brutality — all of which they say have worsened under President William Ruto’s administration.
Some protesters have gone as far as calling for President Ruto’s resignation, accusing his government of being detached from the suffering of ordinary Kenyans.
Despite mounting pressure, the government has so far remained largely silent on the KNCHR’s latest report. Civil society groups and international observers have urged Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint and respect the rights of citizens to peaceful assembly.
The situation remains tense as organizers vow to continue pressing for reform and accountability in the face of rising state repression.
