Kenyas Tumultuous July Protests Police Brutality And Economic Strain Photo By Canvas
Kenya’s Crisis Deepens: Protests, Police Response, and Economic Challenges
NAIROBI, Kenya – The nation of Kenya is currently grappling with widespread anti-government protests, reignited by public discontent over the high cost of living, alleged corruption, and heightened police brutality. These demonstrations, particularly significant on July 7th, known as “Saba Saba” (Swahili for “seven seven”), have resulted in tragic loss of life and significant economic disruption. This year’s Saba Saba protests mark the 35th anniversary of a pivotal pro-democracy uprising, now evolving into a broader call for President William Ruto’s resignation.
According to reports from sources like the Associated Press and Al Jazeera, at least 10 people were killed and dozens injured during clashes between protesters and police on Monday, July 7th. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights also confirmed these fatalities and reported numerous injuries and arrests. Police, as detailed by Arab News and JURIST, resorted to using live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas to disperse crowds, drawing concern from the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR). The OHCHR, as stated by Anadolu Agency, has called for thorough investigations into the deaths and violent incidents, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to international human rights law regarding the use of force.
These protests follow a series of demonstrations sparked in June by the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody, an incident that galvanized public anger. The current unrest, largely driven by younger Kenyans (“Gen Z”), echoes the anti-tax protests of 2024, which also led to casualties and property destruction. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen, cited by Al Jazeera, has warned against violent protests, while critics, like those speaking to Citizen Digital, suggest that the government’s use of “brute force” is counterproductive.
Adding to the nation’s challenges, Kenya is facing intense scrutiny over a massive money laundering crackdown. A report by TechTrendsKE on July 8th reveals that KSh 6.97 trillion (approximately $53.6 billion) in suspicious financial activity has been flagged in just three years. This has led to Kenya’s inclusion on the European Union’s watchlist of high-risk third countries, raising concerns about deficiencies in regulatory enforcement and potentially impacting the country’s growing fintech sector.
The Financial Reporting Centre (FRC) highlighted various tactics used for illicit flows, including the use of shell companies and transaction structuring to evade reporting thresholds. The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and FRC are under immense pressure to demonstrate effective enforcement to regain international trust.
The economic impact of the protests is also a significant concern. The Cabinet Secretary for Trade, Investment, and Industry, cited by KBC Digital, has warned that protest violence deepens job losses and hurts the economy, with billions lost and businesses vandalized. This comes as the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE) has reportedly defied unrest and economic hardships to post a rebound, as reported by The Standard. Meanwhile, President Ruto has signed the Division of Revenue Bill 2025 into law, aiming to unlock funds for both national and county governments and strengthen the fiscal framework, according to KBC Digital.
The current political and economic climate in Kenya remains highly volatile, with ongoing calls for dialogue and reform amidst the protests and the deepening money laundering investigation.
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