Nairobi, Kenya –
At least 16 people have been confirmed dead and thousands of businesses destroyed following widespread anti-government protests across Kenya on Wednesday, according to Amnesty International.
The demonstrations, which began as peaceful anniversary marches marking one year since Kenya’s last major anti-tax protests, spiraled into violent chaos, particularly in Nairobi, the nation’s capital.
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The situation escalated as youths clashed with police, lit fires, and tore up pavements to use as weapons, transforming business districts into battlegrounds.
- “What unfolded yesterday was not a protest. It was terrorism disguised as dissent,” said Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen in a televised statement, condemning the violence.
He accused the demonstrators of carrying out looting, arson, and sexual assaults under the guise of peaceful protest.
Businesses Devastated, Livelihoods Lost
In Nairobi’s central business district, the epicenter of the violence, entire shopping centers and commercial outlets were reduced to ashes. AFP reporters on the scene documented the destruction, including banks broken into, supermarkets looted, and electronics and clothing stores completely ransacked.
- “When we came, we found the whole premise burnt down,” said Raphael Omondi, a 36-year-old print shop owner who lost over $150,000 worth of equipment.
- “They looted everything… I don’t know where to start,” added Maureen Chepkemoi, owner of a perfume store. “To protest is not bad, but why are you coming to protest inside my shop? It is wicked.”
Several shop owners claimed the looting intensified after the government ordered media houses to stop live coverage of the protests.
Death Toll and Police Brutality
Amnesty International’s Kenya Director, Irungu Houghton, confirmed that 16 people were killed, many of whom were reportedly shot by police.
Vocal Africa, a local human rights group assisting victims, reported that at least four bodies had been brought to a Nairobi morgue, all bearing signs of gunshot wounds.
“We condemn this excessive use of force. You come out to protest police killings, and they kill even more,” said Hussein Khalid, head of Vocal Africa.
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Earlier reports indicated over 400 injured, with 83 in critical condition. Protests were recorded in 23 counties across Kenya, highlighting the widespread discontent.
Mounting Discontent Against President Ruto
The unrest reflects growing public anger toward President William Ruto, who came to power in 2022, promising economic revival and reform.
- However, many Kenyans remain disillusioned by high taxation, stagnant economic growth, corruption, and recent incidents of police brutality, including the death of a teacher in custody earlier this month.
The protests mark a pivotal moment in Kenya’s political and civil landscape, with calls for accountability and systemic reform growing louder across the country.
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