Deaths reported throughout demonstration in Kenya
(MENAFN) Kenya has witnessed deadly nationwide protests against police brutality and alleged government corruption, with the National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reporting at least eight fatalities. Over 400 people, including journalists and police officers, were injured during the demonstrations held across 23 counties on Wednesday.
According to KNCHR, most injured individuals received treatment and were discharged, while 83 required specialized care, including eight with gunshot wounds. Amnesty International Kenya’s executive director, Irungu Houghton, told Reuters that at least 16 deaths have been confirmed, with most caused by police actions.
The protests mark the anniversary of last year’s youth-led demonstrations against a controversial finance bill designed to raise $2.7 billion to service government debt. Security forces reportedly killed at least 60 people during those rallies.
On Wednesday, thousands of young Kenyans took to the streets, particularly in Nairobi, waving national flags and holding placards with images of those who died last year, chanting “Ruto must go,” targeting President William Ruto.
Some protesters trapped in an alley pleaded with CNN reporter Larry Madowo not to leave, fearing police violence. As Madowo spoke to them, riot police fired teargas, causing distress among the crowd.
Roads leading to Nairobi’s central business district were blocked, and government buildings were barricaded with razor wire. Although the Kenyan Communications Authority initially ordered a halt to live TV and radio coverage of the protests, the Nairobi High Court later reversed this decision.
The marches also come amid outrage over the recent death of 31-year-old blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in custody after criticizing a senior police officer. Six individuals, including three police officers, have been charged with murder, though they pleaded not guilty.
While authorities have said protests are permitted if peaceful and unarmed, two police officers were arrested last week for shooting an unarmed civilian during a Nairobi protest over Ojwang’s death.
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