Kenyans on the streets for anniversary of past protests. Thousands of demonstrators filled Kenya’s streets to commemorate the one-year anniversary. Its on the month the storming of parliament during intense anti-government protests. This comes amid concerns over possible confrontations with police and pro-government gangs.
The previous year, at least 60 people lost their lives during weeks of demonstrations sparked by tax hikes and economic hardship, particularly affecting the youth.
Activists and victims’ families are urging for calm and peaceful protests. All these in remembrance of the most violent day of the unrest, when protesters breached parliament grounds.
Early Wednesday morning, police sealed off key roads leading into Nairobi’s central business district, while government offices were secured with razor wire barriers.
Thousands of mostly young male protesters marched while waving Kenyan flags. And holding placards bearing images of those killed in last year’s demonstrations, chanting slogans such as “Ruto must go.”
Western embassies in Kenya
Embassies including those of the UK, Germany, and the United States — issued a joint statement condemning the use of hired thugs to interfere with or disrupt peaceful protests.
Political analyst and lawyer Javas Bigambo expressed concern to AFP. He warns that opportunistic activists and political groups might take advantage of the tense atmosphere to incite young people into violence.
“There’s nothing commendable about what occurred last year,” he said. “If June 25th is to be remembered, it should be done with reflection, prayer, and restraint.”
President William Ruto, elected in 2022 on promises of swift economic transformation, now faces growing public frustration. Many Kenyans feel let down by persistent economic stagnation. Grievances includes rising taxes, and ongoing corruption—issues that persist despite his withdrawal of a controversial finance bill following last year’s mass protests.
While the government has steered clear of direct tax hikes this year, concerns are mounting over the forced disappearances of critics. Human rights groups report that more than 80 people have vanished since last year’s protests, with many still unaccounted for. This has sparked fears that Kenya is slipping back into authoritarian practices reminiscent of the 1980s and 1990s.
Although Ruto previously pledged to end such abductions, he showed no regret in a recent speech, declaring his unwavering support for the police.
LSK sounds alarm over suspected abduction of activist in Kiambu.
