Amnesty International has confirmed that 16 people died during the June 25 anti-government protests across Kenya. Police reportedly shot most of those killed.
Ironically, the 16 died while commemorating over 60 lives lost during the June 25 2024, protests.
The demonstrations, led mainly by Gen Z, took place in over 24 counties including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisii, Kitengela, Matuu, and Nyeri. They were held to mark the first anniversary of the deadly 2024 protests against the Finance Bill.
According to Amnesty Kenya’s Executive Director Irungu Houghton, the deaths were verified together with the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
“Most were killed by police,” he said, adding that at least five were confirmed to have been shot.
KNCHR earlier reported eight deaths from gunshot wounds. It also said over 400 people were injured, including protesters, police officers, and journalists. There were reports of police using rubber bullets, live ammunition, and water cannons.
Kenyatta National Hospital confirmed that 107 people had been admitted, most with gunshot wounds. However, no deaths were reported at the hospital itself.
Among those killed was a Kenya Power security guard, shot while on patrol at the company’s Nairobi offices.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) said it had launched investigations into the police’s conduct. It also confirmed that at least 61 people had been arrested during the protests.
Police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga declined to comment on the findings by Amnesty and KNCHR.
Meanwhile, media freedom briefly came under threat when broadcasters NTV and KTN News were pulled off air for showing live footage of the protests. A Nairobi court later suspended that directive, and the stations resumed broadcasting.
Tension remains high across the country. The protests follow the recent death of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody. His death has fueled public anger, especially among the youth.
With 16 more lives lost, Kenyans are once again calling for accountability, justice, and an end to police brutality.
By Vivian K.