At least eight killed and hundreds hurt as Kenya protesters battle police
On 25 June 2025, nationwide protests erupted in Kenya to mark the anniversary of last year’s anti-tax and anti–police brutality demonstrations. What began as commemoration turned deadly, with at least eight confirmed dead and hundreds injured, according to Kenyan rights monitors and medical teams .
Thousands—especially young Kenyans—took to the streets in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and across 23 of the country’s 47 counties. Many bore white crosses bearing the names of those killed in previous crackdowns, while calling for justice and economic reforms . The protests also gained momentum from the custodial death of 31‑year‑old blogger Albert Ojwang, who died under questionable circumstances earlier this month .
The demonstrations quickly escalated into violent clashes with police, who employed live ammunition, tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and physical force . Medical responders in Nairobi reported treating hundreds of injuries, including gunshot and rubber-bullet wounds, with at least 80 requiring hospital referrals .
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, over 400 people suffered injuries nationwide, and authorities made more than 60 arrests . In some cases, journalists and medics themselves became targets of police aggression—even being teargassed while providing aid .
Under mounting pressure, the government imposed a media blackout, restricting live broadcasts and shutting down messaging platforms like Telegram during the unrest. Observers view this as a direct assault on freedom of assembly and the press .
Western diplomats, including a joint statement from the U.S. Embassy and European missions, condemned the crackdown and urged respect for protest rights .
The protests reflect a broader national frustration over economic hardship, entrenched corruption, and systemic police violence. Unemployment, rising costs of living, cuts in foreign aid, and the recent detention death of Ojwang have united a growing youth-led movement demanding accountability and governance reform. With renewed energy and deep public anger, many analysts see this as the beginning of a sustained campaign that could redefine Kenyan politics in the run-up to the 2027 elections.
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