Kenya is on high alert ahead of the first anniversary of the June 2024 anti-tax protests, which escalated into some of the most violent demonstrations in the country’s recent history.
Multiple police stations across the country have received official notices for peaceful protests set to take place on Wednesday, as citizens prepare to commemorate those killed during last year’s unrest.
On 25 June 2024, tens of thousands of demonstrators — largely composed of young people — flooded the streets of Nairobi and other towns to oppose President William Ruto’s controversial Finance Bill, which proposed steep tax increases. The protests culminated in a dramatic storming of Parliament, prompting police to open fire on the crowd.
Although President Ruto withdrew the bill a day later, the cost was devastating. Over 60 people lost their lives, and according to rights watchdog Civicus Monitor, at least 82 were forcibly or involuntarily disappeared during the protests.
A year later, youth-led movements, victims’ families, and civil rights groups have vowed to return to the streets in honour of the dead and to demand police accountability, justice, and reforms.
Police have pledged to maintain security and encouraged peaceful conduct, while bereaved families have called for a calm, solemn rally.
However, the country remains tense. According to Missing Voices, 2024 saw a 24% rise in cases of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, totalling 159 incidents.
Public anger has been further inflamed by the recent death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody, sparking nationwide protests. Six individuals, including three police officers, have been arrested in connection with the case. Separately, two more officers were arrested after allegedly shooting a mask vendor at close range during a protest — the victim remains in critical condition.
Opposition figures, including former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, have called for mass action, while government-aligned politicians have warned demonstrators against disrupting business. Tiaty MP William Kamket now faces censure after threatening to mobilise Pokot youth against the protests.
The coming days will test the strength of Kenya’s democratic space and the government’s commitment to human rights.
