Kenya’s Unyielding Fight for Freedom

By Darius Spearman (africanelements)

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Kenya Protests Erupt in Violence

The streets of Kenya have once again become a battleground for democracy and human rights. On July 7, 2025, anti-government protests escalated dramatically, resulting in a tragic loss of life. At least 10 to 11 people were killed during these latest demonstrations (upi.com, reuters.com, cnn.com, news.sky.com, dw.com). This wave of unrest underscores the deep-seated frustrations many Kenyans feel regarding their government and the persistent challenges to their fundamental freedoms.

Furthermore, these protests carry significant historical weight, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of the original “Saba Saba” demonstrations. That pivotal event marked a crucial turning point in Kenya’s journey toward multiparty democracy (cnn.com, dw.com, allafrica.com). The echoes of past struggles for justice and accountability resonate powerfully in the current movement, demonstrating that the fight for true liberation and self-determination continues for the people of Kenya.

Protest Casualties Mount

The human toll of the July 7, 2025, protests is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who stand up for their rights. Initial reports indicated that two bodies, showing apparent gunshot wounds, were brought to Eagle Nursing Home in Kangemi, Nairobi (upi.com). A Reuters reporter personally witnessed police firing at protesters in Kangemi and observed a man lying motionless with a bleeding wound (reuters.com).

Moreover, the Eagle Nursing Home confirmed admitting six injured individuals and two deaths from gunshot wounds (reuters.com). Kenyatta National Hospital reported treating 24 injured individuals (reuters.com). Kenyan police themselves confirmed 11 deaths and reported 52 officers injured (reuters.com). CNN and Sky News also reported 11 deaths, with CNN adding that hundreds were arrested (cnn.com, news.sky.com). DW reported at least 10 killed (dw.com). The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) expressed deep concern over these killings, calling for a thorough and independent investigation (un.org).

Protest Grievances Fuel Outrage

The current wave of protests is deeply rooted in widespread public outrage over a range of critical issues. These include alleged corruption within the government, persistent police brutality, the abduction of government critics, and the crushing burden of the high cost of living (cnn.com). The economic struggles faced by ordinary Kenyans, particularly the youth, have become a significant driving force behind their discontent, as they grapple with daily challenges to make ends meet.

Specifically, the latest demonstrations were ignited by calls for police accountability following the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody last month (cnn.com, news.sky.com, reuters.com). President William Ruto himself acknowledged that Ojwang died “at the hands of the police,” a statement that further fueled public anger (smh.com.au). An autopsy revealed that Ojwang’s wounds, including a head injury and neck compression, indicated assault as the cause of death (smh.com.au). Prosecutors have since approved murder charges against six individuals, including three police officers, all of whom have pleaded not guilty (smh.com.au). The shooting of an unarmed street vendor by police on June 17 further intensified public anger (cnn.com, news.sky.com). These incidents have solidified the protesters’ demand for President William Ruto’s resignation (cnn.com).

Police Tactics Under Scrutiny

The police response to the protests has drawn significant criticism, with accusations of excessive force being widely reported. Kenyan security forces have employed tear gas, water cannons, and even live ammunition against demonstrators (cnn.com). These aggressive tactics were deployed hours after major roads into Nairobi were blocked, indicating a coordinated effort to suppress the protests.

Furthermore, observers have described the force used as excessive and unlawful (allafrica.com). Specific incidents include police opening fire on unarmed protesters and violently assaulting others, with videos from Kitengela and Rongai showing officers in unmarked Subaru vehicles engaging in these actions (allafrica.com). The state-run Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KHRC) reported that “Police operated in plainclothes and unmarked vehicles” and collaborated with “armed criminal gangs in Nairobi, Kajiado, Nakuru, Kiambu, and Eldoret” (upi.com). The KNCHR also accused the National Police Service of defying a High Court order that prohibits the deployment of officers in plain clothes or unmarked vehicles during public demonstrations (allafrica.com, dw.com). This pattern of behavior raises serious questions about accountability and the rule of law within the police force.

Kenyan History of Dissent

These recent protests are not isolated incidents but rather part of a long and significant history of anti-government demonstrations in Kenya. The nation has a strong tradition of its people rising up against perceived injustices, particularly concerning economic policies and governance. For example, last year, protests over tax hikes and economic hardship led to the deaths of at least 60 people as security forces clashed with demonstrators (dw.com).

In addition, on June 25, 2025, at least 19 people were killed and more than 400 injured during protests against police brutality (news.sky.com, dw.com). This event coincided with the one-year anniversary of anti-tax protests in 2024, which culminated in parliament being stormed and over 60 people losing their lives (news.sky.com). Following these intense demonstrations, the Kenyan government withdrew a controversial tax bill in June 2024 (cnn.com). While some tax proposals were withdrawn, public anger over police violence and other grievances remains high, demonstrating the ongoing nature of the struggle for justice and accountability in Kenya.

Gen Z Protests Lead the Way

A striking aspect of the current protest movement is the prominent role played by Generation Z. The majority of the protesters are young Kenyans, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s (dw.com). This demographic has become increasingly estranged from the government, feeling the brunt of economic hardship and a lack of opportunities.

Furthermore, their activism is not new; the first major Gen Z protests occurred last summer, initially targeting a planned tax law (dw.com). Their continued engagement highlights a growing generational divide and a powerful demand for change. These young people, often connected through social media, are demonstrating a profound commitment to shaping Kenya’s future, refusing to be silenced in the face of adversity.

Calls for Justice and Accountability

The ongoing protests are a clear and forceful demand for justice and accountability from the Kenyan government. Protesters are not only calling for President William Ruto’s resignation but also for concrete actions to address the systemic issues that plague the nation (cnn.com). The international community has also taken notice, with the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) expressing deep concern over the killings and calling for a thorough and independent investigation into the police’s use of force (un.org).

Moreover, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has urged calm and respect for fundamental freedoms, including the rights to peaceful assembly and expression (un.org). This international scrutiny adds pressure on the Kenyan authorities to address the grievances of their citizens responsibly. The resilience of the Kenyan people, particularly the youth, in continuing their fight for a more just and equitable society, remains a powerful testament to their unwavering spirit.

Kenya’s Enduring Struggle

The recent events in Kenya underscore an enduring struggle for human rights, democracy, and economic justice. The tragic loss of life during the July 7, 2025, protests serves as a somber reminder of the high stakes involved when citizens demand accountability from their leaders. The deep-seated grievances, ranging from police brutality and alleged corruption to the crushing burden of the high cost of living, have fueled a powerful movement, particularly among the nation’s youth.

Ultimately, the historical significance of “Saba Saba” day, commemorating decades of democratic struggle, resonates profoundly with the current generation of protesters. Their determination to challenge the status quo, despite facing severe repression, highlights an unwavering commitment to shaping a better future for Kenya. The world watches as Kenyans continue their courageous fight for a society where human dignity and justice prevail.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darius Spearman has been a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.