Thrusday, June 26, 2025 – HAN News
Nairobi – Kenyans across the country held large-scale demonstrations on Wednesday to mark the first anniversary of last year’s historic anti-tax protests, renewing calls for economic justice, transparency, and accountable governance.
The protests, which occurred in several regions—including the town of Matuu, about 100 kilometers from the capital, Nairobi—were largely peaceful. However, two people tragically lost their lives during confrontations with police. Julius Makau, administrator of the Matuu District Hospital, confirmed the fatalities and reported that several others were injured, including one individual in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses told Horn Africa News that tensions escalated when police attempted to disperse the crowds. Despite these clashes, the majority of demonstrators marched peacefully to honor those who lost their lives during the 2024 protests and to express growing frustration over the rising cost of living.
The demonstrations commemorate June 25, 2024, when widespread protests erupted across the country in response to controversial new tax measures introduced by President William Ruto’s administration. Human rights organizations have described the 2024 protests as among the deadliest in Kenya’s recent history and also confirmed that 60 people died and hundreds were injured following the protests that erupted on June 18, 2024, peaking with the storming of parliament on June 25. They also reported dozens of enforced disappearances
While the recent fatalities have raised serious concerns, civil society groups and human rights advocates commended the determination of the Kenyan people to uphold their democratic rights and continue demanding lasting reforms.
“This anniversary is not just about remembering the past,” said one activist in Nairobi. “”It’s about people being able to speak about their future, and having the right to be heard, and prioritizing those seeking justice.”
