Nairobi, Kenya – Police in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, used live rounds and water cannon against anti-government protesters on July 7, 2025, the 35th anniversary of the historic pro-democracy uprising known locally as “Saba Saba” (seven seven). The demonstrations, which have increasingly centered on calls for President William Ruto to resign, saw hundreds of demonstrators attempt to advance through the city center amid a heavy deployment of security forces.
Local media outlets reported at least one person was dead and several others injured following the clashes. The confrontation underscores the escalating tensions between the government and a protest movement fueled by grievances over the cost of living, corruption, and alleged state repression.
Deepening Political Crisis
The protests on July 7, timed to coincide with the significant Saba Saba anniversary – which commemorates the 1990 demonstrations that pressured the then-government to adopt multi-party democracy – highlighted the deep political divisions currently facing Kenya. The movement, initially sparked by opposition to proposed tax hikes, has broadened into a forceful expression of discontent with President Ruto’s administration.
Witnesses reported police firing live ammunition and deploying water cannon to disperse crowds attempting to breach security cordons. The heavy police presence was visible across Nairobi, with key routes blocked and security personnel stationed at strategic points.
Conflicting Narratives and Accusations
The immediate aftermath of the clashes saw differing accounts emerge from protesters and the government.
Protesters alleged that authorities were paying armed vandals to infiltrate their ranks and provoke violence, aiming to discredit the peaceful nature of their movement. This accusation mirrors similar claims made during previous waves of unrest.
In contrast, Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen issued a strong statement asserting the government’s commitment to protecting life and property. He characterized the protests as an “attempted coup,” a serious accusation that signals the government’s firm stance against the demonstrations. Minister Murkomen also stated that security agencies were on high alert for “criminals and other elements of ill intent,” suggesting a focus on identifying and neutralizing individuals deemed disruptive.
Background of Unrest
The July 7 demonstrations are the latest in a series of protests that have rocked Kenya since mid-2024. A previous wave of violent clashes last month was triggered by public anger over issues including corruption, allegations of police brutality, and the unexplained disappearances of government critics. These concerns have fueled significant public distrust in state institutions.
A key catalyst for the recent unrest was the death in police custody of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang in June. His death sparked widespread outrage and further intensified calls for accountability within the security sector.
Human Rights Concerns and Casualties
The human toll of the prolonged period of protests has been significant. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported that 19 deaths occurred during nationwide demonstrations last month alone. Investigations into some of these fatalities are underway.
Regarding the death of Albert Ojwang, prosecutors have approved murder charges against six individuals, including three police officers, in connection with the case. All six defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Cumulatively, since June 2024, at least 80 people have reportedly died in protests across the country, and dozens more are reported to have been detained illegally, raising serious concerns among human rights organizations about the methods used by security forces to manage dissent.
Anticipating Trouble
In anticipation of potential trouble on the sensitive Saba Saba anniversary, preemptive measures were taken in Nairobi and other parts of the country. Most schools were closed for the day, and at least one major shopping mall in the capital remained shut, reflecting fears of widespread disruption and violence. The heavy security deployment and the government’s strong rhetoric underscore the volatile political climate as the country navigates its current period of widespread civil unrest.
