Eight killed, 400 injured in protest anniversary as rights groups decry police brutality, media gag

At least eight people have been killed and over 400 injured following nationwide protests marking the first anniversary of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.

According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the fatalities were reported in six counties and resulted from gunshot wounds inflicted during clashes between demonstrators and police.

KNCHR said it had monitored protests in at least 23 counties and raised concern over “continuous violations of human rights and non-adherence to the rule of law by both state agencies and a select group of citizens.”

The commission confirmed eight deaths: two in Machakos, two in Makueni, and one each in Nakuru, Kiambu, Uasin Gishu, and Nyandarua counties. It expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, noting that the victims had allegedly succumbed to gunshot wounds.

“Over four hundred (400) casualties have been reported, including demonstrators, police officers and journalists,” the KNCHR said.

“Most of them were treated and discharged, 83 of them were referred for specialised treatment, eight with gunshot wounds.”

61 detained

KNCHR said at least 61 individuals had been detained across various police stations, the majority in Nairobi. The Commission further noted that some arrests were unaccounted for as they had not been booked into any police stations.

“There was widespread police deployment across various counties. There are allegations of excessive use of force, including the use of rubber bullets, live ammunition and water cannons, resulting in numerous injuries,” the commission said.

The rights body also reported that the protests had been infiltrated by criminal groups, leading to looting and property destruction.

Hired goons

Citing credible information, the commission said “hired goons” had been active in Eldoret, Mombasa, Nairobi, Nakuru, Nyeri, Kajiado and Kisumu.

The commission also condemned the Communications Authority of Kenya’s directive barring live media coverage of the demonstrations and the removal of certain stations from broadcasting platforms.

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• Eight killed
• 400 injured in protest anniversary as rights groups decry police brutality

“This action directly violates Article 34(2) of the Constitution, which guarantees media freedom and prohibits state interference, as well as Article 35(1)(b), which ensures the public’s right to access information,” KNCHR Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris said.

In a statement, the Law Society of Kenya, Police Reforms Working Group and the Kenya Medical Association also condemned the loss of life and urged restraint from both protesters and security agencies.

“We express condolences to the families of the eight protesters who were killed today. At least 400 others were treated, with 83 of them referred to specialised treatment for serious injuries. At least 8 protesters have been treated for gunshot wounds. Three of the injured include police officers,” the statement read.

“While these figures are confirmed by medics and human rights defenders, sadly, the exact figures may only be known in the course of time.”

Scale of the protests

The three organisations acknowledged the scale of the protests, which they said took place in 23 counties, and called on remaining protesters to exercise caution.

“We urge those still on the streets to exercise care to avoid further loss of life and injury. We remind all law enforcement agencies currently deployed and under the control and command of the National Police Service to exercise restraint. Every Kenyan life is precious,” the groups said.

“We pray for our nation, dialogue and a way forward from the political impasse facing Kenya. May justice continue to be our shield and defender.”

Meanwhile, Kenya Power confirmed the killing of a security guard at its Stima Plaza headquarters in Nairobi during the protests.

The company said Mr Fred Wamale Wanyonyi, an employee of Hatari Security, was shot at the Kolobot Road entrance around 4:30 pm while on duty.

“He was rushed to Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival,” the company said.

“We regret the unfortunate death of Mr Wamale and are working with the relevant investigative organs to unearth the circumstances under which the incident occurred.”

Kenya Power extended its condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Wanyonyi.