Key facts
- Kenyan police have blocked major roads into Nairobi ahead of planned anti-government protests.
- The demonstrations mark two years since at least 60 people died during previous protests.
- Protesters are demanding justice for victims and transparency in government compensation for human rights abuses.
- President William Ruto stated protests are permitted but warned against disruption and violence.
- Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen assured police would escort protesters but stop criminals.
Kenyan police have sealed off key roads leading into the capital, Nairobi, ahead of planned nationwide protests. The demonstrations are set to mark two years since at least 60 people died during previous anti-government protests in June 2024, which saw thousands protest proposed tax hikes and the storming of parliament. Protesters are demanding justice for those killed and injured, and greater transparency in the government's compensation program for victims of human rights abuses.
Commuters faced significant disruptions on Thursday morning as security forces blocked access to the city center, leading to many businesses and schools remaining closed. The protests, largely mobilized via social media, are expected in major towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, and parts of central Kenya, with heightened surveillance and a strong police presence anticipated.
President William Ruto has stated that while citizens have the right to protest, his administration will not tolerate any actions aimed at destroying property or causing chaos. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen assured that police would escort peaceful protesters but would act against any criminals attempting to infiltrate the demonstrations. Several political leaders and civil society groups have voiced support for peaceful expression.
However, Ruto's former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, has urged activists to stay home, citing concerns about potential violence. Last week, President Ruto announced a fund of nearly $15 million to compensate approximately 2,000 victims of protest-related human rights abuses identified by rights groups between 2017 and 2025. He described the compensation as an acknowledgment of harm rather than an admission of guilt. Human rights organizations have criticized the plan for excluding some victims, offering inadequate payouts, and lacking transparency.
Edith Wanjiku, whose son was killed during the 2024 protests, shared her family's suffering, noting that only two out of ten families whose children were shot near Parliament have received compensation despite submitting all necessary paperwork to the Kenya Human Rights Commission.