Anniversary protests in Kenya marking one year since the deadly anti-government demonstrations erupted into violence on Wednesday, with police firing tear gas and sealing off key government buildings in Nairobi using barbed wire.
Thousands gathered peacefully at first in central Nairobi and several other towns to remember the victims of last year’s protests, where at least 60 people died as security forces cracked down on rallies sparked by tax hikes and worsening economic conditions.
However, Wednesday’s marches quickly turned chaotic as protesters clashed with police, hurled stones, and demanded President William Ruto’s resignation.
“We’re marching against police brutality, high taxes, and government oppression,” said Anthony, 25, a flag vendor at the rally who declined to give his full name.
Two protesters were shot dead in Matuu, about 100 kilometres from the capital, according to a hospital official. Local media reported that police opened fire during the confrontation.
In Nairobi, at least one police officer and several demonstrators sustained injuries, and a suspected plainclothes officer was beaten by the crowd.
To contain the unrest, police used water cannons and heavy tear gas, while the government ordered broadcasters to halt live coverage. Internet tracker NetBlocks confirmed that access to Telegram had been restricted.
Large crowds continued to march through Nairobi’s main roads into the afternoon, though security forces blocked entry to the business district.
Anger over police brutality had intensified in recent weeks following the death of a teacher in police custody. Last week, gangs of motorbike-riding “goons” armed with whips and clubs reportedly disrupted peaceful rallies while working alongside police. Western embassies, including those of the UK, Germany, and the US, condemned the use of such tactics.
Although these gangs were not seen on Wednesday, police maintained a heavy-handed approach. Protester Florence Achala said: “We’re here as young people to demand a complete overhaul. The system is rotten.”
Analyst and lawyer Javas Bigambo warned that political groups could exploit the tense situation, urging a more solemn approach: “We should be marking this day with restraint and reflection, not more bloodshed.”
President Ruto, elected in 2022 on promises of economic reform, now faces growing resentment. Despite shelving last year’s finance bill after protests, citizens remain frustrated by stagnant living conditions, corruption, and alleged abductions of government critics — with over 80 reported disappearances since last year, according to rights groups.
Ruto addressed the nation on Tuesday, standing firmly with the police and offering no apology, even as accusations mount that his leadership echoes the authoritarianism of Kenya’s past.