Demonstrators mark the second anniversary of a 2024 protest where 60 people were killed by security forces.
Published On 25 Jun 2026
Kenyan authorities detained 355 individuals during rallies commemorating the 2024 protests, which saw clashes with security forces resulting in 60 fatalities. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen acknowledged the arrests but apologized for the use of barricades and other measures to control the demonstrations.
Nearly two years after the initial unrest, police deployed tear gas near Nairobi’s parliament to disperse peaceful protesters outside the city’s police station. The security response was framed as a precaution against renewed unrest, according to a Reuters correspondent who observed the scene.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights confirmed that anniversary organizers aimed to honor victims of the 2024 crackdown, where protesters had previously stormed parliament grounds. However, in Nairobi’s central district, businesses remained closed as authorities erected roadblocks with water-cannon trucks.
Opposition figures and families of those killed during the 2024 protests joined commemorative activities at parliament. Edith Wanjiku, whose son Ibrahim Kamau was among the deceased, criticized the police for blocking access to the site.
“As parents, we sought permission just to come here … to mourn and lay flowers for our children. But when we arrived, we were shocked because the police blocked us,” Wanjiku said.
She demanded accountability, calling for justice and compensation for victims. While President Ruto acknowledged “instances of excessive actions” by security personnel and allocated Sh2 billion ($15.5 million) for affected parties, activists argue the compensation is insufficient. Organizers have called for an independent investigation into past police conduct and guarantees against future excessive force.