Kenya arrests over 350 as people mark anniversary of deadly protests

Kenyan police detained more than 355 individuals across the country as citizens marked the second anniversary of deadly anti-government protests. The 2024 demonstrations, which were sparked by tax increases, led to the deaths of at least 60 people, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.

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We regret the inconveniences occasioned by these measures, and at the same time appreciate their effectiveness in securing the city and other parts of the country.

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen stated that the arrests were necessary to maintain security and apologized for any inconvenience caused by barricades and other measures. He referred to those detained as "criminals." However, Reuters reported that police used tear gas to disperse peaceful gatherings outside Nairobi's police station.

Families of those killed during the original protests gathered to mourn and lay flowers, but faced police blockades. Edith Wanjiku, whose 19-year-old son was killed in 2024, expressed shame and demanded justice and compensation from President Ruto for the officers involved in the killings.

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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.

Protest organizers are calling for a thorough investigation into past police conduct and assurances against excessive force. Al Jazeera correspondent Malcom Webb noted that the heavy police presence aimed to prevent a recurrence of the violence seen two years prior, amidst ongoing public discontent over economic issues.

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That is very shameful. And one thing I would ask of President Ruto: those police officers who killed the children – because they are known – I am only asking for justice for those children and also compensation.