Kenya is on edge after anti-government protests turned deadly on Monday, leaving 11 people dead and dozens injured in violent clashes across the country.
What started as a peaceful march to mark the 35th anniversary of pro-democracy “Saba Saba” rallies quickly spiraled into chaos — fueled by public outrage over the death of 31-year-old blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody last month.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror in Nairobi’s Kangemi suburb, where police opened fire on crowds. One man was seen lying motionless, bleeding on the road, as hospitals reported gunshot victims pouring in.
“We’ve admitted six — two already dead from gunshots,” said Eagle Nursing Home. Kenyatta National Hospital confirmed 24 injured.
🚨 Police vs. Protesters — And Shadowy Figures
While police say 11 people died and 52 officers were hurt, they didn’t clarify who was behind the killings.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) added fuel to the fire, reporting the presence of hooded, plainclothes men in unmarked vehicles — despite a court order requiring police to be clearly identifiable.
Even more shocking: armed gangs with whips and machetes were seen operating alongside police in parts of Nairobi and Eldoret.
🛑 “Terrorism Disguised as Protest”?
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen, who last month called the protests “terrorism in disguise,” warned that security forces were on high alert to crack down on “criminals.”
But critics say the real terror is police brutality and government silence.
The protests, once focused on tax hikes, have exploded into a full-blown movement against corruption, state violence, and suppression of dissent.
⚖ Blogger’s Death Sparks a Movement
Ojwang — a beloved teacher and political blogger — died mysteriously in custody, igniting weeks of unrest.
Nineteen people were killed in protests on June 25 marking the anniversary of the 2024 parliamentary storming.
Now, six people, including three police officers, are charged with Ojwang’s murder — all pleading not guilty.
🇰🇪 Protesters Say: “This Is Not Over”
With schools closed, roads blocked, and cities in lockdown, Kenya’s youth-led movement is showing no signs of stopping.