Thursday, June 26, 2025 — HAN News
Nairobi, Kenya – At least 16 people have been killed and more than 400 injured across Kenya following nationwide demonstrations that turned violent on Tuesday, according to rights groups and officials.
The protests, initially organized to honour victims of last year’s deadly anti-government demonstrations, spiraled into chaos as police clashed with protesters in multiple cities, including Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa.
Amnesty International Kenya has confirmed the death toll, citing the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), a government-funded body. “Most of those killed were shot by police,” said Irũngũ Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty Kenya.
The scale of the violence has sparked national and international concern, with human rights organizations calling for an immediate investigation into the police response and accountability for those responsible.
Protesters had gathered to demand justice for victims of previous crackdowns and to voice anger over economic hardship and alleged corruption. However, tensions escalated when security forces moved in to disperse crowds using tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition.
Footage from the scenes shows injured civilians being carried away by fellow demonstrators, as ambulances struggled to navigate blocked roads and chaotic scenes.
The government has yet to release an official statement on the casualties, but authorities have defended the police response, saying some demonstrators turned violent and damaged property.
Human rights groups are urging restraint and dialogue, warning that continued heavy-handed responses could further destabilize the country. Protests are expected to continue in the coming days.
