Tag: Maandamano 2025 news

Proposed Law Could Jail Kenyans for Spontaneous Protests Amid Gen Z Uprising

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Kenyans could soon face up to one year in jail or a Sh100,000 fine for participating in spontaneous demonstrations if a controversial new bill is passed into law. The Assembly and Demonstration Bill, 2024, backed by the government, has reignited fierce public debate just weeks after nationwide Gen Z-led protests swept across the country.

The bill, which aims to overhaul the legal framework governing public assemblies and protests, proposes tougher penalties for individuals who engage in unnotified or unregulated demonstrations, a move critics say could criminalise constitutionally protected rights.

Bill Sparks Outrage Over Threat to Freedom of Assembly

Initially introduced by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku during his tenure as Mbeere North MP, the bill faced public backlash earlier in the year and was shelved. However, it has now resurfaced in the wake of the youth-led maandamano movement, which has drawn thousands of demonstrators to the streets over issues including high taxes, governance concerns, and police brutality.

If passed, the bill would mandate prior notification and approval for all public demonstrations. Spontaneous or unregistered gatherings would be deemed illegal, with participants facing harsh penalties, including fines up to Sh100,000 or imprisonment for 12 months.

Civil rights groups and legal experts have slammed the proposed legislation, warning it could be used to suppress dissent and stifle free expression.

“This is an attack on democracy. The right to assemble is protected under Article 37 of the Constitution. Criminalising unplanned protests, especially in moments of national crisis, sets a dangerous precedent,” said a lawyer from the Law Society of Kenya.

President Ruto: We Must Balance Rights

Speaking on the matter, President William Ruto confirmed his support for regulating public protests and signaled plans to engage with the Judiciary and Parliament to shape the legislation.

“We will have a conversation with the Judiciary and all other actors—MPs included. I think it is time we have a law that will regulate how we carry out demonstrations in Kenya,” Ruto stated.

“We must protect the right of those who want to demonstrate, picket, and protest—but equally, we must also protect the right of those who don’t want to participate in demonstrations.”

His comments have drawn mixed reactions, with some citizens applauding the move as a way to curb violence and protect public property, while others view it as a thinly veiled attempt to muzzle protest movements, particularly those led by frustrated youth.

Growing Fears of Authoritarian Drift

The reintroduction of the bill comes at a time when the country is still reeling from the aftermath of the June 25 protests, during which at least 19 people were killed and hundreds injured, according to human rights watchdogs. Allegations of excessive police force, enforced disappearances, and sexual violence remain under investigation.

Activists warn that such legislation could embolden further state overreach, especially as the government faces increasing scrutiny from both domestic and international observers.

Online, hashtags like #RejectTheBill, #RightToProtest, and #StopSilencingYouth continue to trend, signaling growing public resistance to the proposed restrictions.

As Parliament prepares to debate the bill, all eyes remain on Kenya’s lawmakers—and on the thousands of young people ready to defend their right to be heard.

Families of June 25 Victims Barred From Autopsies, Fear Evidence Is Being Buried

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Tensions are running high at Nairobi City Mortuary as families of protesters killed during the June 25 demonstrations say the state is blocking post‑mortem examinations—raising suspicions of a cover‑up.

According to relatives, a government pathologist has skipped multiple scheduled autopsies, citing “security concerns,” despite a directive from the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) that all bodies be examined.

“They’re playing games while our children lie cold in the morgue,” said one distraught parent. “We just want the truth so we can bury them with dignity.”

Mounting Death Toll, No Accountability

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) puts the toll from the anti‑Finance Bill protests at 19 dead, 531 injured, 15 enforced disappearances, and 179 arrests, alongside several reports of sexual violence. Not a single police officer has been charged.

“The longer the state delays these autopsies, the more it looks like they’re hiding something,” a local human‑rights activist told reporters.

Families worry that without immediate examinations, critical forensic evidence will be lost—harming any future prosecution of those responsible for the shootings.

Murkomen Remarks Fan the Flames

Public anger intensified after a leaked recording appeared to show Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen saying police would not cooperate with IPOA investigations into civilian shootings. Although he later claimed his words had been taken out of context, many Kenyans remain unconvinced.

“How do you tell officers to shoot and then shield them from scrutiny?” asked a civil‑society leader.

Hashtags and Outcry

#JusticeForJune25 and #ReleaseTheBodies continue to trend as Kenyans demand answers. Families are now calling on the courts—and even international bodies—to intervene.

“If our own government won’t help, let the world see what’s happening,” said a grieving father. “We refuse to be silenced.”

For now, the bodies remain at City Mortuary, the autopsies on hold, and the nation waiting for justice that seems increasingly elusive.

Three Activists Arrested Over June 25 Protests Released on Cash Bail

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Three activists who were arrested on suspicion of inciting violence during the anti-government protests held on Wednesday, June 25, have been released on cash bail.

The individuals, whose arrests sparked public concern and calls for due process, were each granted bail of KSh 200,000 by a Nairobi court on Tuesday. They had been detained following their participation in nationwide demonstrations that turned chaotic in parts of the country.

The June 25 protests marked the one-year anniversary of the Gen Z-led uprising against the controversial Finance Bill 2023, with demonstrators once again taking to the streets to decry government policies, police brutality, and lack of accountability.

Authorities claimed the trio had played a key role in inciting unrest during the protests, which saw public infrastructure vandalized and several people injured. However, supporters of the activists argued that their arrests were politically motivated and aimed at intimidating dissenting voices.

The release of the three comes amid rising tensions between civil society groups and the government over the handling of protests and freedom of expression. Human rights organizations have called for investigations into the conduct of law enforcement during the demonstrations and urged the state to uphold constitutional rights, including peaceful assembly.

As the country grapples with continued public outcry and demands for reform, the cases against the activists are expected to proceed in court, with the next hearing set for a later date.

Government waives 816K bill of innocent hawker killed by police officer

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In a major relief effort aimed at easing the burden on families affected by recent political unrest, the Kenyan government—through the Ministry of Health—has announced a full waiver of medical bills for all patients injured during the Nairobi protests held on June 17 and 25, 2025.

The directive, issued under the leadership of Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, includes the outstanding bill for the late Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a young mask vendor whose shooting during the demonstrations drew national outrage and amplified demands for police accountability.

“The recent demonstrations…resulted in injuries and emotional distress for many Kenyans. As a Ministry, our hearts go out to all those affected. We remain committed to ensuring they receive the care and support they need,” read an official statement from CS Duale.

Relief for Affected Families

As per the directive, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has been instructed to waive all hospital bills for protest-related injuries, with the expenses now charged to the hospital’s Disaster Emergency Fund.

This includes the medical bill of KSh 815,805 accrued by Boniface Kariuki, who was placed on life support after being shot in the head during the June 17 demonstrations. He was declared brain dead on June 30.

Kariuki’s case had become a heartbreaking symbol of the cost of civil unrest, with his family previously lamenting the soaring hospital fees and lack of government support, even as their son’s condition sparked widespread public sympathy.

Human Rights Crisis

The government’s action comes amid growing scrutiny over the handling of recent protests. Originally peaceful, the demonstrations on June 17 and the June 25 Gen Z-led anniversary protests turned violent, marred by police crackdowns, the use of tear gas, and alleged live rounds.

According to ongoing investigations by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), these confrontations resulted in multiple injuries and fatalities. Boniface’s shooting, reportedly while conducting his usual business selling face masks, shocked the nation and intensified calls for justice.

Rare Move Toward Accountability

In a rare but significant development, the police officers linked to Kariuki’s shooting have since been arrested and arraigned. This step toward accountability has been welcomed by rights groups and citizens, many of whom hope that Kariuki’s case will mark a turning point in the fight against impunity during state operations.

While the medical bill waiver brings financial relief, many Kenyans see it as a tacit acknowledgment of state responsibility in the chaos that unfolded.

“It’s a welcome gesture,” said a family member of Kariuki, “but it cannot replace what we lost. What we need is justice.”

A Nation in Reflection

As Kenya continues to reel from the aftermath of the protests, the waiver serves as a small but meaningful step by the state in addressing the suffering of affected families. However, for many—including Kariuki’s family—the ultimate resolution lies not in financial assistance, but in truth, justice, and meaningful police reforms.

Who broke into Quickmart OTC? Video surfaces showing police and goons around looted supermarket

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There has been a concerted effort to slander Kenyans who decided to exercise their constitutional rights and the biggest way this has been pulled off has been by law enforcement officers linking protesters to the break in and looting that took place at the Quickmart OTC branch.

A new video has surfaced, however, that shows a contrary piece of evidence to what was being said by the police charged with investigating the matter. From what was captured on screen by members of the media, the OTC branch was surrounded by the very looters that were revealed to be in league with police officers.

And as if that weren’t damning enough, the video also captures police officers first seeming to parlay with the criminal gangs before leaving them to their designs which inevitably led to the supermarket chain getting absolutely gutted.

Killer cops? Quick look at what they posted on social media and the weapons used to nearly kill Kenyan hawker

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NAIROBI, Kenya – June 17, 2025: Nairobi’s Central Business District descended into chaos as protests erupted over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang’ in police custody. Amid the unrest, 22-year-old hawker Boniface Kariuki was shot in the head near Imenti House—a moment captured on video that has since fueled national outrage.

Kariuki, who sells face masks on the streets, is now in critical but stable condition at Kenyatta National Hospital after undergoing emergency surgery to remove a projectile from his skull.

In response to the public outcry, authorities have arrested and interdicted two General Service Unit (GSU) officers: Police Constables Klinzy Barasa Masinde (Service No. 119413) and Duncan Kiprono (Service No. 117193). Both were stationed in Nairobi, with Barasa serving at Kayole Police Station and possessing five years of experience in crowd control and counter-terrorism.

Barasa Identified Through Social Media Footprint

Barasa quickly became the primary suspect after Kenyans on social media identified him from viral footage, despite his balaclava. Observers matched a distinct Jamaican wristband and Kenyan flag bracelet seen in the video with photos on Barasa’s active TikTok and Facebook profiles (@batarizahke and Climzy Bantarizah). His Instagram, which features over 1,000 followers, includes images of him in uniform—one captioned, “I can’t fix stupid, but I can cuff it.”

Angry users flooded his accounts with condemnation, and several screenshots—including one of him in uniform—have been widely shared online. His marital status remains unclear, though archived photos from 2021 show him in the company of women, including one taking a selfie while he was on a phone call.

The Shooting and Legal Defense

According to eyewitnesses and video evidence, Kariuki collapsed outside Imenti House after being hit by what appeared to be a round from a Stoeger P3000 pump-action shotgun, reportedly fired by Barasa.

Barasa’s lawyer, Felix Kiprono Keaton, has denied his client’s involvement, citing mistaken identity. He questioned the reliability of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ (DCI) methods, suggesting the identification could be based on AI-generated images. Keaton also called for the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to take over the case, citing potential bias.

Weapon of Concern: The Stoeger P3000

The Stoeger P3000, a Turkish-made 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, has raised eyebrows among security experts. Commonly used in tactical scenarios, the weapon has a 4+1 shell capacity and can fire both 2¾-inch and 3-inch rounds, including buckshot and slugs.

While often loaded with rubber pellets or beanbags during crowd control, the use of 00 buckshot—nine pellets per round—makes it dangerously lethal. Its lack of serial markings on projectiles complicates forensic tracing, leading to widespread criticism of its use in policing.

Mounting Pressure on Police Service

Kariuki’s shooting has intensified scrutiny of the National Police Service (NPS), which expressed regret over the incident. However, many Kenyans remain skeptical, citing the country’s long history of police impunity.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has gone further, accusing elements within the police of colluding with criminals to suppress dissent, especially during peaceful protests. The DCI’s Homicide Unit is now leading the investigation.

Meanwhile, Barasa and Kiprono are being held at Capitol Hill Police Station, awaiting arraignment.

A Nation on Edge

The shooting of Boniface Kariuki, along with the suspicious death of Albert Ojwang’, has amplified demands for police reform and accountability. Activists, including Boniface Mwangi, have condemned the crackdown, as have a growing number of Kenyan citizens and public figures.

With the injured hawker’s survival hanging in the balance and pressure mounting on law enforcement, the coming days may prove pivotal in shaping the future of police accountability in Kenya.

Video surfaces online of killer cop vowing to bring thunder during maandamano

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A video has surfaces of the killer cop who was captured in recording shooting an unarmed and cooperating hawker at point blank range right in the head claiming he was ready for the demonstrations that were peaceful before goons were unleashed on the unsuspecting demonstrators.

The officers who is attached to the General Service Unit of the police force was at what appears to be a training session on a break, enjoying bread slices as he made his declarations that would later have chilling consequences.

 

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The National Police Service have since called for his arrest in a statement issued on the evening following the brazen shooting he perpetrated. More to follow as the situation develops.

Police Officer Arrested After Shooting Unarmed Vendor During Nairobi Protests

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A police officer who shot and injured an unarmed street vendor during anti-government protests on Moi Avenue in Nairobi has been arrested, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed on Tuesday.

The shooting, which was captured on video and widely circulated on social media, shows the officer firing an anti-riot shotgun, hitting the vendor in the head at close range. The victim, who was not part of any confrontation and posed no threat, was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital and is currently receiving treatment.

In a statement issued by police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the NPS acknowledged the incident and confirmed that the officer had been taken into custody on the orders of Inspector General Japhet Koome.

“Following this incident, the Inspector General of the National Police Service ordered the immediate arrest and arraignment of the officer involved. The said officer has since been arrested,” Nyaga stated.

The statement also addressed rising tensions during the protests, pointing to what police described as infiltration by “goons armed with crude weapons.”

“The service takes great exception and does not condone such unlawful groupings. These individuals will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law. Investigations are underway to identify and prosecute those involved,” Nyaga added.

However, the shooting has sparked a fresh wave of public outrage, with many Kenyans condemning the excessive use of force and calling for broader police reforms. Civil society groups and human rights defenders have renewed their demands for accountability, urging authorities to ensure justice for all victims of police brutality.

The incident has further intensified scrutiny of the police’s handling of the protests, as anger over state violence continues to build across the country.