Kenya’s July 2025 Protests: Youth Lead Calls for Justice After Deadly Crackdown

Kenya is facing a period of intense turmoil after at least 10 people were killed and dozens more injured during anti-government protests on July 7, 2025. The violence, which erupted in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and at least 16 other counties, stands out as one of the deadliest episodes in the country’s recent history of civic unrest. 

Human rights groups and police sources confirm that hundreds have been arrested as authorities imposed strict security measures to contain the demonstrations.

In Nairobi, the capital, security forces were heavily deployed. Major roads were barricaded, and the city center was effectively locked down. Clashes between protesters and police broke out on the outskirts, with reports of running battles, tear gas, and live ammunition. Businesses closed and public transport stopped. 

Kisumu, a traditional opposition stronghold, saw large youth-led marches and confrontations with security forces. In Mombasa, demonstrations also took place, though with fewer reports of violence compared to Nairobi. Protests were documented in at least 17 of Kenya’s 47 counties, with looting and property damage reported in several locations.

The July 7 protests, known as Saba Saba (Seven Seven), commemorate the 1990 movement for multiparty democracy. This year, frustration over economic hardship, government corruption, and police brutality fueled the unrest. 

The immediate trigger was the government’s perceived failure to address grievances from previous protests, as well as the recent death of a young teacher and blogger, Albert Ojwang, in police custody—a case that reignited outrage over impunity.

Many protesters, especially young Kenyans, demanded President William Ruto’s resignation, an end to police violence, and genuine reforms to address unemployment and the rising cost of living. Social media played a key role in mobilizing crowds and amplifying calls for justice.

At least 10 people have been confirmed dead, with some reports indicating up to 11 fatalities. Human rights groups documented at least 29 injuries among protesters, while police reported 52 officers injured. 

Police confirmed 567 arrests nationwide, with additional reports of abductions and detentions of civil society leaders.

Police spokesperson Michael Muchiri stated that some individuals were determined to engage in lawlessness, including looting and attacks on officers, and emphasized that all incidents would be investigated. 

Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen defended the security response, saying security agencies were on high alert to address any criminals or malicious individuals who might infiltrate peaceful gatherings.

Human rights groups, including the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and Amnesty Kenya, condemned the killings and called for independent investigations. 

They urged the government to respect the right to peaceful assembly and to hold those responsible for abuses to account. The United Nations also expressed deep concern, calling for prompt, transparent investigations and accountability for all abuses.

Eyewitnesses in Nairobi described scenes of chaos, with people being shot and others carried away bleeding. In Kisumu, residents spoke of young people’s determination for jobs and justice. Opposition leader Raila Odinga condemned the crackdown, saying the government was using force to silence its citizens.

The deadly crackdown has reignited questions about the state of democracy under President Ruto. 

Critics argue that the government’s reliance on force and restrictions on assembly signal a dangerous drift toward authoritarianism. 

Yet, the resilience and agency of ordinary Kenyans—especially young people—underscore a powerful demand for change that resonates beyond Kenya’s borders. Protesters insist they are not just statistics, but the future of Africa, and their call for justice, dignity, and reform now echoes across the continent, challenging leaders everywhere to listen and act.