Wed Jun 25 12:18:53 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Kenya Marks Year Since Deadly Protests with Renewed Demonstrations, Accusations of Police Brutality**
**Nairobi, Kenya** – Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets on Wednesday to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the antigovernment protests that saw Parliament stormed in June 2023. The demonstrations, fueled by persistent anger over tax increases, economic hardship, and alleged police brutality, saw protesters chanting slogans calling for President William Ruto’s resignation.
While organizers called for peaceful marches, some urged demonstrators to “occupy State House,” leading to widespread closures of schools and businesses in anticipation of unrest. Police erected barricades and deployed razor wire around key government buildings in Nairobi, while also blocking access to the capital’s business district.
Early reports indicated that the protests were largely peaceful, with demonstrators waving Kenyan flags, roses, and placards honoring those killed during last year’s unrest. However, tensions escalated in Nairobi, with some protesters throwing stones and police responding with tear gas. Similar protests were reported in Mombasa and other counties.
The anniversary comes amid heightened public outrage over alleged police brutality, following the recent death of a teacher in police custody. Further fueling the anger, a group of peaceful protesters was reportedly attacked last week by a gang of motorbike-riding “goons,” allegedly acting in coordination with law enforcement.
Rights groups estimate that at least 60 people were killed by security forces during the weeks of protests last year, which were sparked by tax hikes and a worsening economic situation impacting young Kenyans disproportionately. The demonstrations are a stark reminder of the challenges facing President Ruto’s government and the deep-seated public discontent.
First Piper 