In Kenya, on June 25, 2026, police arrested at least 355 individuals during demonstrations commemorating the second anniversary of the 2024 protests that resulted in the deaths of 60 people. The protests were organized to remember those killed during the anti-government rallies against tax hikes, which had sparked widespread unrest two years prior. Demonstrators gathered in various locations, including the capital Nairobi, where police deployed heavy security measures, including roadblocks and tear gas, to disperse crowds. The Interior Minister, Kipchumba Murkomen, labeled those arrested as 'criminals' and justified the police's actions as necessary to prevent potential violence.
The protests were a response to ongoing grievances regarding economic conditions and government policies, particularly the tax increases that had led to the unrest in 2024. Families of victims and activists attempted to march toward parliament to demand accountability and compensation for those killed in the previous protests. However, they faced significant police resistance, which included blocking access to the parliament grounds. The police's heavy-handed approach was attributed to the government's desire to avoid a repeat of the violent clashes that occurred two years ago.
Despite the government's acknowledgment of past police brutality, many activists criticized the response to the protests, arguing that it violated the right to peaceful assembly. The Police Reforms Working Group reported that more than 361 people had been detained, highlighting concerns over the treatment of protesters and the targeting of journalists during the demonstrations. The protests were part of a broader pattern of discontent in Kenya, where citizens have been increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with the government's handling of economic issues.
The anniversary of the 2024 protests served as a reminder of the unresolved issues surrounding police violence and the need for accountability. While the government has set aside funds for victims of protest-related abuses, many believe that these measures are insufficient. The ongoing tensions between the government and the public reflect a deep-seated frustration with the political and economic situation in Kenya, raising questions about the future of governance and civil rights in the country.
