Thousands of Kenyans poured into the streets on Wednesday to commemorate one year since the storming of Parliament during mass demonstrations against tax hikes and state mismanagement. The anniversary was not only a moment to remember the dozens who died but also a bold statement against ongoing police brutality and political disillusionment.
Why Are Kenyans Still Protesting?
The 2024 protests, which erupted over the Finance Bill and high cost of living, left at least 60 people dead, mostly young Kenyans. This year, demonstrators returned with flags and placards bearing the faces of last year’s victims, chanting “Ruto must go” as they marched through major cities.
Eve, a 24-year-old unemployed protester, said:
“I’ve come here as a Kenyan youth to protest, it is our right for the sake of our fellow Kenyans who were killed last year. The police are here… they are supposed to protect us, but they kill us.”
Angel Mbuthia, chair of the youth wing of the opposition Jubilee Party, stressed the importance of remembering June 25:
“It is extremely important that the young people mark June 25th because they lost people who look like them, who speak like them… who are fighting for good governance.”
What Role Are Police and ‘Goons’ Playing?
Safety concerns intensified after recent attacks on peaceful demonstrators by armed gangs locally known as “goons”, motorbike-riding assailants allegedly operating alongside police. A recent incident saw such groups attacking protesters with whips and clubs.
Western governments, including the US, UK, and Germany, issued a joint statement condemning the trend:
“The use of hired ‘goons’ to infiltrate or disrupt peaceful gatherings” was unacceptable, the embassies stated.
How Has President Ruto Responded?
President William Ruto, who campaigned on promises of economic transformation in 2022, is now facing widespread disillusionment. Despite shelving last year’s controversial Finance Bill, Kenyans are still burdened by inflation, unemployment, and deepening inequality.
Ruto addressed the nation on Tuesday and defended his administration’s handling of the protests.
“You cannot use force against the police or insult, or threaten the police. You are threatening our nation,” he warned.
Ruto’s tough stance has drawn criticism from rights groups that accuse his government of reviving tactics from Kenya’s repressive past. Since the 2024 protests, more than 80 critics and activists have disappeared, with dozens still missing.
Lawyer and analyst Javas Bigambo expressed concern over the day’s tone:
“There is nothing good to celebrate about the events that happened last year. If we were serious about commemorating June 25th, it should be in solemnity, prayer, and restraint.”
By Lucky Anyanje
