Death toll from Kenyan anti-government protests reaches 31
The death toll from the July 7th anti-government protests in Kenya has risen to 31, making it the highest single day death toll since demonstrations began earlier in 2025, as reported by AP News on July 9th.
It is estimated that a further 107 people were injured and over 500 were arrested amidst the widespread looting and property damage that took place. The arrest figure largely corresponded with the one issued by police. The death toll did not specify whether any security forces were amongst those killed.
Kenyan citizens, notably young people, have participated in public demonstrations against police brutality and poor governance. They also call for President William Ruto to resign over alleged corruption and the rising cost of living.
President Ruto has not yet issued a statement regarding the protests or death toll of July 7th.
The UN high commissioner for human rights, Volker Türk, pushed for the Kenyan government to address the grievances that led to the protests. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani stated that he, “renews his call for calm and restraint, and full respect for the freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly.”
The protests, which were obstructed from access to downtown Nairobi due to police roadblocks, were planned to occur on the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba pro-democracy demonstrations. Saba Saba translates to “seven seven” in Swahili.
July 7th hold vast historical and political significance in Kenya as it marks the first major pro-democracy protests in 1990. Saba Saba called for then-President Daniel arap Moi – Ruto’s political mentor – to facilitate the state transformation from a one-party system to a multiparty democracy. This vision was realised in 1992 when a general election was held.
The death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody triggered this most recent wave of protests. During a protest on June 17th, police shot a civilian at close range, and on June 25th, thousands of youths took to the streets to demonstrate. A total of 50 people have been killed in the protests over the last two weeks.
AP News, Maghrebi.org
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