Kenya’s Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the police response to nationwide protests that left at least 10 people dead and over 400 injured, dismissing claims of excessive force and instead labeling the demonstrations as “terrorism disguised as dissent” and an “unconstitutional attempt to overthrow the government.”
Murkomen praised security forces for showing “remarkable restraint amid extreme provocation” and credited them with “foiling an attempted coup.” He accused demonstrators of engaging in “criminal anarchy,” citing widespread violence, looting, sexual assault, and arson during the protests.
Key government installations, including nine police stations, were attacked—five of which were set on fire—while five police firearms were stolen. Dozens of vehicles, including police and civilian cars, were also destroyed.
Rights Groups Challenge Official Death Toll, Report Higher Casualties
While the government confirmed 10 fatalities, Amnesty International Kenya reported at least 16 deaths, all from gunshot wounds. Among the victims was 19-year-old David Mwangi, a bystander from Nairobi’s Mukuru informal settlement, who was shot in the head while picking up his younger brother from school.
His grieving mother, Rachael Nyambura Mwangi, described him as her “helper and first-born son” who dreamed of becoming a mechanic. Another victim, 17-year-old student Dennis Njuguna, was killed in Molo town, 170 km from Nairobi, shortly after school hours. His mother, Jecinta Gathoni, said she was too traumatized to view his body at the morgue.
Protests Mark Anniversary of Previous Anti-Government Unrest
The demonstrations coincided with the one-year anniversary of deadly protests against President William Ruto’s administration, with thousands chanting “Ruto must go” and waving tree branches as symbols of peaceful resistance. Protesters demanded an end to police brutality and economic reforms.
The Kenyan government initially banned live TV and radio coverage of the protests, but the Nairobi High Court overturned the order, allowing media to resume reporting.
Human Rights Groups Condemn Police Violence
The Law Society of Kenya and other human rights organizations condemned the “unnecessary aggression and brute force” used by police, blaming security forces for “senseless loss of life.” Meanwhile, authorities reported that three police officers were injured during clashes.
As investigations continue, tensions remain high, with Kenyans divided over whether the protests were a legitimate outcry against government policies or, as officials claim, a violent attempt to destabilize the nation.
