UN Condemns Kenyan Police Actions During June 25 Memorial Protests
The United Nations has strongly criticized the Kenyan government for excessive use of force by police during protests held on June 25, 2025, marking the one-year anniversary of deadly demonstrations against a controversial tax bill. The protests, largely led by Kenya's youth, resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, prompting international concern over the state’s response to peaceful assemblies.
The demonstrations commemorated the 2024 protests, which saw over 60 people killed during clashes over the Finance Bill. On Wednesday, thousands took to the streets across Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and other towns, chanting slogans like “Ruto Must Go” and demanding justice for past victims of police brutality. Protesters faced tear gas, water cannons, and, in some cases, live ammunition as security forces moved to disperse crowds and block access to key government buildings, including Parliament.
Reports indicate that at least 16 people died during the June 25 protests, with most fatalities attributed to police actions. Hundreds more were injured, including protesters and some police officers, as tensions escalated in the capital and beyond. Human rights groups have verified these figures, highlighting a pattern of excessive force by security agencies. The UN Human Rights Office called for respect for the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, describing the reported deaths and injuries as “deeply concerning.”
In Nairobi, police set up roadblocks and used razor wire to restrict access to the central business district, while businesses shuttered amid the unrest. Clashes were reported in several regions, with protesters in Eldoret confronting armed groups described as hired “goons,” leading to prolonged standoffs. In Mombasa, protests remained relatively peaceful, standing out as an exception to the nationwide unrest.
The Law Society of Kenya and other civil society organizations condemned the police response, accusing authorities of undermining constitutional rights. They pointed to incidents of brutality, including the assault of a lawyer and the shooting of an unarmed hawker in Nairobi, as evidence of systemic issues within the police force. Calls for accountability have grown louder, with demands for independent investigations into the deaths and injuries.
The Kenyan government has faced mounting criticism for its handling of dissent, with activists accusing President William Ruto’s administration of prioritizing state power over citizens’ rights. The protests were further fueled by public anger over recent abductions, the death of a blogger in police custody, and ongoing concerns about corruption and the rising cost of living.
As Kenya grapples with these challenges, the international community has urged restraint and dialogue to address the root causes of the unrest. The UN emphasized that upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights are essential for restoring public trust. Meanwhile, Kenyan youth remain defiant, vowing to continue their fight for justice and accountability.