Kenya arrests more than 350 as people mark anniversary of deadly protests

Kenyan police dispersed protesters in the capital Nairobi and detained others who took to the streets to commemorate those killed in anti-government rallies against tax hikes two years ago. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said on Thursday that 355 people were arrested across the country, calling them “criminals.” He apologized for inconveniences caused by barricades and other security measures but stressed their effectiveness in securing the city and other parts of the country.

A Reuters correspondent saw police fire tear gas to disperse people gathering peacefully outside a police station after six individuals were arrested near parliament, where they had laid flowers. According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, organizers had planned to mark the second anniversary of the 2024 demonstrations, which left at least 60 dead after protesters breached parliament grounds.

In Nairobi, shops and restaurants in the central business district remained closed as police set up roadblocks with water-cannon trucks. Al Jazeera’s Malcolm Webb reported that the heavy police response stemmed from the government’s desire to avoid a repeat of events two years ago, amid simmering discontent over fuel price hikes.

Opposition leaders joined victims of alleged police brutality and families of killed protesters before heading to parliament. Edith Wanjiku, whose 19-year-old son Ibrahim Kamau was killed in 2024, said: “As parents, we sought permission just to come here … to mourn and lay flowers for our children. But when we arrived, we were shocked because the police blocked us. That is very shameful.” She called on President Ruto to deliver justice and compensation.

Protest organizers demand a credible investigation into past police conduct and guarantees against excessive force. President William Ruto acknowledged “instances of excessive and extrajudicial actions by members of the security services” and last week set aside 2 billion Kenyan shillings ($15.5 million) for victims of protest-related abuses, but activists say it is insufficient.