At least 31 people have been killed and more than 100 wounded following nationwide anti-government protests in Kenya, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR). The demonstrations, held on “Saba Saba Day” (July 7), marked the anniversary of Kenya’s 1990 uprising for multiparty democracy and were driven by ongoing public outrage over proposed tax hikes, police brutality, and perceived government corruption.

Over 532 people have been arrested, with reports of two forced disappearances. The violence, which erupted in major cities including Nairobi and Eldoret, saw armed gangs allegedly working alongside masked police officers in unmarked vehicles. Protesters clashed with security forces in 20 of Kenya’s 47 counties, and widespread destruction to property including supermarkets, has further heightened tensions.

President William Ruto’s response has drawn strong criticism, especially after publicly stating that police should shoot looters in the legs rather than kill them - a remark seen by many as an endorsement of violence. Civil society groups, including the Law Society of Kenya and the Police Reforms Working Group, condemned the heavy-handed tactics used by security forces, which they claim defied court orders prohibiting such excessive deployment.

The United Nations Office for Human Rights (OHCHR) voiced deep concern over the killings, urging Kenyan authorities to ensure accountability and respect for international human rights obligations. Meanwhile, the Kenya National Cohesion and Integration Commission, a government body, warned politicians not to stoke ethnic tensions and denounced the police for their use of excessive force.

These protests form part of a broader wave of unrest that has gripped Kenya since June 2024, primarily led by youth demanding economic justice, political reform, and an end to state-sanctioned violence. More than 100 people have now been killed since the protests began.

Families of the victims and many Kenyan citizens continue to call for international oversight, police accountability, and structural reform, especially as the official response increasingly risks further polarising the nation.

Prayer Pointers:

Pray: for those grieving to receive comfort, truth, and justice for loved ones killed or disappeared in the crackdown.

Pray: ask God to raise righteous leaders in Kenya who value peace, equity, and the dignity of every life.

Pray: and intercede for protection and moral courage for peaceful protesters, journalists, and human rights defenders across Kenya.

Prayer for Peace and Justice in Kenya

Lord, we lift up Kenya in this hour of grief. Comfort families, protect the innocent, and raise up leaders of justice. Let truth prevail, violence cease, and Your peace reign over every street and soul in this broken land. Amen.

“Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.”  Proverbs 31:9

For more: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/7/9/at-least-31-dead-532-arrested-in-kenyas-antigovernment-protests