Nairobi marks somber anniversary of deadly anti-tax protests
The streets of Nairobi bear a heavy atmosphere today as Kenyans gather to commemorate the first anniversary of the violent crackdown on protests against the 2024 Finance Bill. On June 25 last year, what began as peaceful demonstrations against unpopular tax measures escalated dramatically when police opened fire on crowds that had breached Parliament grounds. Human rights organizations documented at least 60 fatalities and hundreds injured in what became Kenya’s bloodiest civil unrest in nearly a decade.
Organized by civil society groups and victims’ families, today’s memorial procession will follow the same route as last year’s fateful protest  from Nairobi’s central business district to Parliament buildings, then proceeding to State House.
Participants plan to submit petitions demanding accountability for lives lost, comprehensive police reforms, and an end to alleged extrajudicial killings that have continued to plague the country.
Police authorities have pledged to provide security for the commemoration, with Regional Police Commander George Seda emphasizing measures to maintain order.
However, tensions remain palpable following last week’s controversial death in custody of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwany, which has reignited public anger over alleged security force abuses.
The anniversary comes at a delicate moment for Kenya’s leadership, still grappling with the political fallout from last year’s violence while attempting to demonstrate respect for democratic dissent.
Organizers have repeatedly stressed their commitment to non-violence, urging participants to avoid any actions that might be politically exploited.
As Nairobi holds its breath, today’s events will test whether lessons have been learned from last year’s tragedy.
