Kenyans are planning to hold nationwide protests on Wednesday, June 25, to honour those who died during last year’s anti-government demonstrations.
The protests will not only serve as a memorial but also as a demand for justice for victims and accountability for the security officers involved in the violence. Many believe that the state has continued to protect those responsible instead of punishing them.
Human rights groups have reported that dozens of protesters were either killed or left with serious injuries during the 2024 demonstrations that were sparked by high living costs and alleged police brutality.
Families of the victims have been seeking justice for months with little response. They blame the government for doing nothing to investigate or punish the officers accused of using excessive force.
Since the deadly crackdowns, no police officer has been convicted, and there has been no public investigation. This silence has only made the public angrier. Many feel ignored and betrayed.
With each passing month, their frustration grows stronger. People now say enough is enough, and that’s why they are returning to the streets.
Organizers of the June 25 protests say the event will be peaceful. They are asking everyone to wear black clothes to show unity and respect for those who lost their lives.
Protests and vigils are expected in major towns including Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nakuru. Youth groups, civil society organizations, and religious leaders have all backed the protest and are calling on the government to allow people to express themselves freely and peacefully.
Meanwhile, the state has remained silent, but security has been tightened across the country. The Kenya Police Service is under pressure again, with past cases of officers allegedly using live bullets still fresh in people’s minds.
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