The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has confirmed that at least eight people lost their lives and more than 400 were injured during the June 25th demonstrations held across the country to mark the first anniversary of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.
In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, KNCHR Vice Chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris revealed that the fatalities were recorded in six counties: Machakos (2), Makueni (2), Nakuru (1), Kiambu (1), Uasin Gishu (1), and Nyandarua (1).
The Commission has expressed concern over the growing human cost of the nationwide protests, which were largely marked by violent clashes between demonstrators and police.
“We regret to report the deaths of eight individuals across six counties during the demonstrations. The Commission sends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims,” Dr. Nyeris said.
KNCHR also reported that over 400 individuals — including protesters, law enforcement officers, and journalists — sustained injuries during the protests.
While many were treated and released, at least 83 cases were referred for specialized medical care, indicating the intensity of the confrontations witnessed across multiple counties.
In its preliminary findings, the Commission stated that 61 individuals were detained at various police stations, with the highest number of arrests recorded in Nairobi.
The Commission has vowed to follow up on all detentions to ensure due process is observed and that detainees’ rights are protected.
Dr. Nyeris further disclosed that the demonstrations were infiltrated by criminal elements, undermining the peaceful intentions of the protests.
The KNCHR received credible reports of “hired goons” engaging in violence, looting, and destruction of property in Eldoret, Mombasa, Nairobi, Nakuru, Nyeri, Kajiado, and Kisumu.
“The Commission received credible information of infiltration of the demonstrations by criminal elements, including hired goons, leading to incidents of looting and property destruction,” the statement read in part.
“These acts of violence compromise the legitimacy of peaceful protest and must be condemned.”
The Commission also criticized the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) over its directive to media houses to halt live coverage of the protests, arguing that such a move infringes on the public’s constitutional right to access information.
“KNCHR condemns the directive by the Communications Authority of Kenya to shut down live media broadcasts of the protests.
Such actions are inconsistent with the Constitution and undermine transparency and accountability,” Dr. Nyeris stated.
The human rights watchdog reiterated its commitment to safeguarding civil liberties and ensuring the government adheres to constitutional standards during times of political unrest.
“The Commission will continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates on the promotion and protection of human rights in the country during this period,” KNCHR affirmed.
As the aftermath of the June 25th protests unfolds, pressure is mounting on the government to account for the excessive use of force and to engage with demonstrators’ demands rather than silencing dissent.
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