Kenya Police Clash with Protesters on 35th Saba Saba Anniversary

Kenyan police opened fire on advancing protesters in Nairobi

Nairobi, July 7, 2025 – Kenyan police opened fire on advancing protesters in Nairobi on Monday as thousands took to the streets nationwide to mark the 35th anniversary of the “Saba Saba” pro-democracy rallies. The protests, already intensified by public anger over the recent death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody, have renewed focus on police brutality, corruption, and human rights abuses in the country.

A reporter on the scene witnessed security forces firing live rounds after earlier using tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds in the Kangemi area. One man was seen lying motionless with a bloody wound on the road.

Protests Spread Nationwide

Demonstrations broke out in multiple towns including Nyeri, Embu, and Nakuru, where mounted police clashed with stone-throwing protesters. In Nairobi, authorities blocked major roads, restricted vehicle movement, and shut down schools and shopping centers amid fears of violence.

“We are not ready to go back home because who will fight for our rights then? We will be here till evening,” said Francis Waswa, a construction worker among the protesters.

Government's Hardline Stance

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen, who previously described the protests as “terrorism disguised as dissent”, said on social media that security forces remain on high alert to prevent criminal infiltration of peaceful protests.

“Our security agencies are committed to protecting life and property and will decisively deal with any mayhem,” he stated.

The protests are an annual remembrance of July 7, 1990 known as “Saba Saba” (seven-seven) in Kiswahili when Kenyans rose against the authoritarian regime of then-President Daniel arap Moi to demand multi-party democracy. The movement eventually led to Kenya’s first multi-party elections in 1992.

Human Rights Concerns

Tensions escalated further after unidentified individuals stormed the Kenya Human Rights Commission offices on Sunday, disrupting a planned press conference and injuring at least one board member.

Protests this year have been fueled by multiple grievances:

• Rising taxes

• Escalating corruption

• Extrajudicial killings

• Unexplained disappearances of government critics

The death of Albert Ojwang in police custody last month has become a rallying point for youth-led movements demanding justice and greater accountability.

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