by Hiram Kimanthi: Kenyan Police Officer Who Defied “Shoot-to-Kill” Orders Resigns in Protest
July 12, 2025
Kenya is grappling with a growing debate over police accountability and human rights after police officer Hiram Kimanthi officially resigned from the service, citing ethical and legal concerns over a controversial directive issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
Kimanthi’s resignation follows weeks of public and political backlash against Murkomen’s now-infamous “shoot-to-kill” order, issued on June 26, 2025. The directive instructed police officers to shoot anyone approaching a police station with the apparent intent to steal firearms or harm officers—a statement that sparked immediate condemnation across legal, political, and human rights circles.
“I Will Not Kill Unarmed Kenyans”
Kimanthi, a respected officer within the Kenya Police Service, made headlines when he openly refused to comply with the directive, calling it “unconstitutional and immoral.” In what many described as an act of conscience and courage, he took a public stand, asserting that the role of law enforcement is to uphold justice—not to serve as an execution squad.
Shortly after his public refusal, Kimanthi was transferred to a remote and less favorable post, a move widely interpreted as punitive. Rather than accept the transfer, he chose to resign, stating that he could not in good conscience remain in an institution that expects obedience to unlawful commands.
“As a police officer, I swore to protect life and property, not to carry out extra-judicial killings,” Kimanthi said in a brief statement. “If standing by the Constitution makes me a target, then so be it.”
Public Backlash and Government Retraction
CS Murkomen’s directive provoked a firestorm of criticism. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) quickly condemned the order as illegal and ultra vires, warning that it violated constitutional protections and international human rights obligations.
Under mounting pressure, Murkomen attempted to clarify his position, saying his words had been taken out of context and emphasizing that the use of firearms must align with existing laws—that is, only in life-threatening situations.
However, the damage was already done. His original directive had already emboldened some officers while instilling fear among the public, particularly in informal settlements and high-risk areas where excessive police force has been an ongoing concern.
A Resignation That Resonates
Kimanthi’s resignation has become a rallying point for those calling for reforms within the Kenya Police Service. Civil society organizations, human rights groups, and a number of MPs have hailed him as a man of principle.
“Officer Kimanthi has reminded us that not all in uniform are willing to blindly follow illegal orders,” said a statement from Amnesty International Kenya. “His courage is an indictment of a system that often punishes integrity.”
Some lawmakers are reportedly considering a motion to censure or even impeach CS Murkomen, citing abuse of office and dangerous overreach.
What Comes Next?
The ripple effects of this controversy may lead to:
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Increased scrutiny of police conduct, especially during high-tension operations.
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Calls for clearer use-of-force guidelines to prevent extrajudicial violence.
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Protection for whistleblowers and ethical officers like Kimanthi.
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Renewed public pressure on the government to align law enforcement policy with constitutional standards.
A Symbol of Conscience in Uniform
Hiram Kimanthi’s decision to walk away rather than compromise his principles has stirred a powerful national conversation. At a time when public trust in law enforcement remains fragile, his stand serves as both a warning and a beacon—a reminder that the law must always outweigh the whims of political authority.
In a country where obedience is often rewarded more than justice, Kimanthi chose justice. And in doing so, he may have altered the course of how Kenya thinks about power, ethics, and the badge.
Football Fans Unite as MultiChoice Brings UEFA Thrill to Nairobi’s 1824 Club
In a night that merged elegance with football passion, MultiChoice brought the heat of the UEFA Champions League to Nairobi’s legendary 1824 Club, giving fans a VIP-style viewing experience of one of the season’s most anticipated matches. The event, which featured a live screening of the clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan, attracted a vibrant crowd of football lovers, influencers, and entertainers, all brought together by a shared love of the beautiful game.
A New Standard for Fan Engagement
Gone are the days when watching a Champions League final meant crowding around a small TV. At 1824 Club, MultiChoice pulled out all the stops — from immersive branding and themed décor to widescreen projectors and high-end audio setups that gave fans the sensation of being in the stadium itself. The club was transformed into a stylish football arena, complete with team flags, glowing UEFA signage, and dedicated fan zones.
Attendees were treated to more than just football. Interactive prediction games, team trivia, and giveaways kept the energy high even before kickoff. Football merchandise, customized drinks, and digital fan contests added a personalized touch that elevated the experience beyond the ordinary.
Football, Fashion, and Familiar Faces
The event’s emcees — football enthusiast Fareed Khimani and sports analyst Njeri Meg — kept the audience informed and entertained throughout the night, offering real-time commentary and engaging the crowd with pre-match insights and half-time banter. Nairobi’s trendy football crowd didn’t disappoint either, donning official jerseys, custom kits, and face paint that showed off team loyalty in full flair.
“We’re showing that football isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle,” said Khimani, as the crowd erupted during a tense PSG counterattack. “This kind of event proves that Nairobi has the passion and sophistication to host top-tier viewing experiences.”
A Growing Culture of Premium Sports Events
The 1824 experience comes on the heels of other high-profile Champions League watch parties in Nairobi, such as Mastercard’s recent events at Carnivore Grounds and Heineken’s musical celebration featuring Cassper Nyovest, Nasty C, and Kenya’s very own Savara. But what set the MultiChoice night apart was its private, upscale vibe — blending football intensity with nightclub ambiance, exclusive invites, and a curated entertainment program.
It signals a broader shift in how brands are investing in Kenyan football fans. No longer is the fan experience just about watching the match — it’s about community, style, and immersive storytelling.
More Than a Match: A Celebration of Unity
Despite their club rivalries, fans at the 1824 Club shared hugs, high-fives, and laughs throughout the match. Whether supporting PSG or Inter Milan, what mattered most was the togetherness. The chants, the cheers, and the collective suspense created a microcosm of global football spirit — right in the heart of Nairobi.
“Tonight shows that football can bring people together in ways politics, tribe, and class never could,” said one fan. “This is what Kenya needs — more unity, more joy, more shared moments.”
What’s Next?
With the success of the UEFA viewing event at 1824, MultiChoice has set a new benchmark for premium fan engagement in Kenya. Fans can now expect more high-end viewing parties, brand collaborations, and interactive sports activations in the months ahead, especially as the next football season approaches.
For now, the echoes of that electric night at 1824 — the roars, the laughter, the shared passion — serve as proof that football is more than a game. It’s a celebration. And Nairobi is more than ready for it.
#WeAreAllKikuyu: Unpacking Kenya’s Most Viral Hashtag
In a country often fractured along ethnic and political lines, a surprising show of unity emerged this past week through the viral hashtag #WeAreAllKikuyu. What began as a rallying cry against tribal profiling quickly evolved into a powerful symbol of national solidarity, sparking deep conversations about identity, unity, and the urgent need to confront historical divisions.
Origins of the Hashtag
The hashtag surfaced amid a wave of online discourse accusing members of the Kikuyu community—Kenya’s largest ethnic group—of enjoying political privilege and economic dominance. These accusations intensified following the controversial remarks and actions of a few prominent leaders perceived to be from Central Kenya, drawing backlash from Gen Z protestors and anti-government campaigners.
But rather than fuel further division, a counter-narrative emerged: Kenyans from all walks of life began declaring “We are all Kikuyu” in a show of empathy and rejection of tribal scapegoating. The movement emphasized that government failure and corruption transcend ethnic lines—and that ordinary Kikuyus, like all other Kenyans, are also victims of systemic inequalities.
A Hashtag Goes Global
Within hours, #WeAreAllKikuyu was trending across Kenyan social media platforms and even caught the attention of diaspora communities. Posts poured in from Kenyans of Luo, Kamba, Luhya, Somali, and other ethnic backgrounds standing in solidarity with their Kikuyu brothers and sisters. Many shared stories of intermarriage, friendships, and communal struggles that blurred tribal lines.
One viral post read:
“The elite use tribalism to divide us. The rest of us? We’re all hustling, all suffering. #WeAreAllKikuyu because we are all Kenyan.”
Politicians React, Civil Society Weighs In
Leaders across the political spectrum responded swiftly. Azimio la Umoja’s Martha Karua, herself Kikuyu, praised the unity message, tweeting:
“We must reject tribal politics in all its forms. #WeAreAllKikuyu is a beautiful reflection of the Kenya we want.”
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, speaking in Nyeri, echoed the sentiment, saying:
“Let no one pit communities against each other. Every Kenyan matters, and we are stronger together.”
Meanwhile, civil society organizations such as the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) applauded the campaign for helping to reframe public discourse around ethnicity and class. According to KHRC’s executive director, “This is a generational shift—where young Kenyans are redefining their identity outside the boxes imposed by colonialism and post-independence politics.”
The Gen Z Factor
As with many of Kenya’s recent social movements, Gen Z played a central role in amplifying the hashtag. The same digitally savvy youth who organized the #RejectFinanceBill protests seamlessly pivoted to messages of ethnic unity. Influencers, digital activists, and ordinary citizens used memes, artwork, and short videos to tell a new story: one of collective suffering, shared dreams, and interethnic belonging.
“This generation doesn’t want to inherit the hate of the past,” said 22-year-old activist Joy Wairimu. “We’re building a Kenya that doesn’t judge you by your last name but by your character.”
A Moment or a Movement?
While critics warn that hashtags can be fleeting and performative, many believe #WeAreAllKikuyu has left a lasting impact. By confronting tribalism head-on, it has forced both citizens and leaders to reckon with Kenya’s deeply rooted ethnic divisions—and envision an alternative.
Whether it leads to structural change or simply remains a symbolic win, the message is clear: the youth are rewriting the rules of engagement. And in their Kenya, unity is not just a slogan—it’s a declaration of defiance against the politics of division.
“Shoot Them in the Leg”: President Ruto’s Latest Order Sparks Outrage and Legal Concerns
Nairobi, July 9, 2025 — President William Ruto is facing a growing storm of criticism following remarks made on Monday, July 8, during the commissioning of a police housing project in Kilimani, Nairobi. In a fiery speech, the president directed security forces to shoot protesters involved in looting and destruction of property — but specifically in the legs, not to kill.
“Anyone who burns down someone else’s business and property, let them be shot in the leg and go to the hospital as they head to court,” Ruto said. “We must protect lives and property. Destroying people’s property is not right.”
The statement, which was broadcast live and widely circulated on social media, has triggered an immediate backlash from human rights organizations, legal experts, and opposition leaders who see it as an alarming normalization of police brutality in a country already grappling with deep concerns over state violence.
A Tense National Backdrop
Ruto’s comments come in the wake of sustained nationwide protests that have seen thousands of Gen Z-led demonstrators take to the streets over the last month. Initially sparked by public outrage over the death of activist and blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody, the protests have expanded to encompass wider frustrations over economic hardship, corruption, and perceived government impunity.
On July 7, more than 30 people were killed in what has been described as one of Kenya’s deadliest police crackdowns in recent years. Multiple verified videos showed police officers firing live ammunition at unarmed civilians. Despite mounting criticism from both local and international human rights organizations, the government has continued to double down on a hardline approach.
Ruto Aligns with Murkomen’s “Shoot on Sight” Mentality
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had earlier sparked controversy by urging police to “shoot on sight” any protester attempting to breach police stations or destroy public property. Legal experts, including the Law Society of Kenya, condemned the order as unconstitutional and illegal under both domestic and international human rights law.
Rather than distance himself from Murkomen’s stance, President Ruto appeared to reinforce it — albeit with a call for non-lethal targeting. However, the distinction offers little comfort to critics.
“The Constitution is clear: the right to life is inviolable. You cannot give police a blank cheque to cripple citizens,” said human rights lawyer Muthoni Wanjiku. “Whether you shoot to kill or shoot to injure, both are excessive when dealing with peaceful protesters.”
Political Leaders and Civil Society React
Opposition leaders quickly condemned the president’s remarks. Azimio coalition spokesperson Makau Mutua called the directive “a license for state-sponsored mutilation,” warning that such rhetoric could embolden rogue officers and escalate violence.
Civil society organizations have also expressed alarm. The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) issued a strongly worded statement accusing the government of violating constitutional protections and international obligations. “This is a shocking endorsement of brutality and an abandonment of democratic policing,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, youth protest organizers say the president’s comments will only inflame tensions further.
A Dangerous Precedent?
President Ruto’s “shoot them in the leg” directive has ignited a national debate over the use of force, civil liberties, and the boundaries of presidential authority. Legal analysts warn that such instructions may breach multiple provisions of the Kenyan Constitution and international law, including the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms.
Questions are now being raised about whether the president’s remarks amount to incitement or unlawful command. There are growing calls for oversight institutions, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Judiciary, to intervene and provide clear guidance on the matter.
What Next?
As the country braces for more protests, President Ruto’s hardline stance could mark a turning point in Kenya’s democratic trajectory. With no signs of retreat from the youth movement and continued dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the crisis, the coming weeks will be critical in shaping both public perception and political legitimacy.
Whether intended to deter violence or assert control, the president’s latest remarks have opened a new chapter in an already volatile national moment — one that may leave deep and lasting scars.
Moses Kuria Resigns from Government After Nearly Three Years of Service
Moses Kuria, a prominent figure in President William Ruto’s administration, has officially stepped down from his government duties after nearly three years of public service. The announcement was made on the evening of July 8, 2025, via a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), where Kuria expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and cited a desire to pursue personal interests.
A Tumultuous But Impactful Tenure
Kuria’s stint in government spanned multiple influential roles:
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Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry – 11 months
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Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Delivery and Performance Management – 9 months
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Senior Advisor on Economic Affairs to President Ruto – 10 months
During this period, Kuria was instrumental in crafting and implementing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), a signature economic policy framework of the Ruto administration aimed at empowering grassroots communities and boosting local enterprises.
In his resignation message, Kuria stated:
“It has been a great honour to serve the people of Kenya and to contribute to an agenda I helped design. I now wish to pursue other personal interests away from public office.”
Timing and Political Undertones
Kuria’s resignation comes amid heightened political tensions and public criticism following his recent controversial tweet asserting that “there will be no elections in 2027.” The post sparked nationwide backlash and calls for accountability, with many observers linking the statement to growing concerns over democratic freedoms in Kenya.
Though Kuria did not address the tweet directly in his resignation message, the timing of his exit has raised eyebrows. Some speculate that the resignation may have been prompted or accelerated by internal pressure to distance the administration from his remarks, particularly as President Ruto seeks to stabilize his government midway through his term.
What This Means for the Ruto Administration
Kuria’s departure marks yet another high-profile shakeup within President Ruto’s advisory and cabinet ranks. Earlier in the year, former Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo and digital strategist Dennis Itumbi were also reassigned to different roles, signaling an ongoing restructuring within the inner circle.
With Kuria gone, the presidency is now tasked with identifying a successor who can carry forward the economic vision Kuria helped shape—one that has drawn both praise and criticism for its ambition and execution.
Looking Ahead: Kuria’s Next Chapter
While Moses Kuria has not revealed his specific future plans, sources close to him hint at a possible return to the private sector or political mobilization ahead of the 2027 general elections. Given his outspoken nature and strong following, a comeback—whether in business or politics—cannot be ruled out.
As Kenya watches for who will step into his shoes, the legacy Kuria leaves behind is one of bold ideas, public controversies, and an undeniable impact on the country’s political and economic discourse.
Larry Madowo Claims Goons Were Paid KSh 100K to Attack Him and Destroy Equipment
Veteran journalist and CNN international correspondent Larry Madowo has come forward with disturbing allegations that he was the target of a politically motivated attack plot during the recent Saba Saba protests in Kenya. According to Madowo, a Kenyan political leader offered KSh 100,000 to hired goons to physically assault him and damage his filming equipment as a way of silencing critical reporting.
Alleged Plot Against Madowo
In a series of statements shared online and through interviews, Madowo said the individuals hired to carry out the attack admitted on camera that they had been promised the payment to carry out the ambush. The hired attackers allegedly expressed frustration that they hadn’t been compensated for previous jobs, and the KSh 100,000 was a motivating factor to execute the task.
The claims have sparked outrage and raised new concerns over the safety of journalists covering politically sensitive events in Kenya. Madowo’s statements point to an organized attempt to intimidate the media, particularly those reporting critically on state conduct during public protests.
“They Wanted to Silence Me”
Madowo was not physically present at the July 7 protests, having been deployed on assignment in Nigeria. He emphasized that his travel plans had been arranged weeks earlier, yet despite this, certain social media accounts—including pro-government pages and at least one politician—have accused him of inciting violence.
“They wanted to silence me and destroy our equipment just for doing journalism,” Madowo stated. “But journalism is not a crime. We will not be intimidated.”
He revealed that these threats came after his team’s coverage of police brutality during earlier demonstrations, which was aired internationally. The coverage received both praise and backlash, with some officials accusing him of tarnishing Kenya’s image abroad.
Mounting Pressure on Journalists
The revelations come amid a broader crackdown on journalists and media outlets that have been critical of the government’s response to the recent Gen Z-led protest movement. Multiple incidents of press intimidation, temporary media blackouts, and online harassment have been reported in recent weeks.
Media advocacy groups have since condemned the attacks on Madowo and called for a thorough investigation into the alleged plot. Press freedom watchdogs insist that such threats represent a dangerous escalation in the ongoing battle for free and fair journalism in Kenya.
What Happens Next?
So far, the identity of the politician alleged to have ordered the attack remains undisclosed. There is also no indication that a formal investigation has been launched by authorities. Nonetheless, the mounting evidence and public concern are likely to increase pressure on the government to act.
In the meantime, Madowo remains defiant. “We’ll continue to tell the truth, no matter the cost,” he asserted.
As tensions remain high across the country, this incident serves as yet another reminder of the crucial role journalists play—and the dangerous risks they face—in holding power to account.
Kenyans Slam Moses Kuria Over “No Gen Z Deaths” Claim During Saba Saba Protests
Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria is facing heavy public backlash after claiming that no Gen Z protester died during the violent Saba Saba demonstrations held on July 7, 2025. His remarks, which he said were intended to “comfort” parents, have been met with widespread outrage and accusations of insensitivity and dishonesty.
Kuria’s Controversial Statement
In the aftermath of the nationwide protests, Kuria attempted to downplay the gravity of the government’s response by suggesting that none of the deaths recorded involved members of Generation Z—the youthful demographic largely credited with organizing and leading the protests.
“There is no Gen Z who died,” Kuria stated. “The message to the parents is: your children are safe. It is true that people died, but they were not Gen Z.”
His comments quickly went viral and were condemned by thousands across social media platforms, with Kenyans accusing him of whitewashing the violent crackdown and ignoring the painful realities faced by families who lost loved ones.
Public Outrage
Kenyans online did not mince their words. Many described Kuria’s comments as a “disgrace” and accused him of grossly disrespecting victims and their families.
“You’re a disgrace. People died, and you’re trying to spin it as a PR opportunity?” one commenter wrote.
“Even if one Gen Z died, that’s one life too many,” another added.
For many, Kuria’s statement felt like a calculated political move to deflect growing public anger over the use of excessive force by police during the protests.
The Facts Contradict Kuria
Independent reports by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and police sources confirmed that at least 10 people were killed during the Saba Saba demonstrations, which took place across cities such as Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Meru.
Human rights observers noted that many of those killed or injured were young people, some even in their late teens. Videos and eyewitness accounts show that youth-led protest convoys were among the most heavily targeted by riot police, who deployed live bullets, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse crowds.
Why This Matters
Kuria’s attempt to distance Gen Z from the fatalities is not only factually questionable, but also deeply insensitive, critics argue. For a generation that has taken center stage in organizing peaceful resistance and advocating for justice, such dismissal feels like betrayal from a former senior government official.
His remarks have further strained the relationship between the youth and Kenya’s political elite—already marked by distrust and frustration over unemployment, corruption, and poor governance.
A New Generation of Protest
The 2025 Saba Saba protests, largely mobilized by Gen Z activists, were a modern reflection of the historic July 7, 1990 movement. This time, the demands focused on ending police brutality, addressing economic inequality, and ensuring youth representation in national dialogue.
Despite the heavy-handed response, the protests signaled a powerful shift in civic consciousness. Gen Z has been lauded for using digital platforms to organize, educate, and protest peacefully—something Kuria’s statement seems to overlook entirely.
Conclusion: A Disconnected Leadership?
Moses Kuria’s dismissal of Gen Z deaths in the wake of the Saba Saba protests has only deepened the wounds inflicted by state violence. His comments, widely seen as tone-deaf and misleading, have sparked renewed calls for accountability—not just from security forces, but from politicians who appear out of touch with the very people they claim to represent.
For Kenya’s young activists, the struggle continues—not just in the streets, but against narratives that seek to erase their pain, their presence, and their power.
Mulamwah, Celebrities Condemn Chilling Video of Police Dragging Man After Shooting
A deeply disturbing video showing police officers dragging a nearly naked man—allegedly after shooting him—has ignited a firestorm of anger across Kenya. The footage, which surfaced in the aftermath of the Saba Saba protests on July 7, has been widely circulated online, prompting prominent public figures, including comedian Mulamwah and several other celebrities, to speak out against what many are calling an act of inhumane brutality.
A Shocking Scene
The video, believed to have been taken during the nationwide Saba Saba demonstrations, shows three armed police officers dragging a limp man, stripped to his undergarments, across the ground toward a station. It remains unclear whether the man was already dead or critically injured at the time.
The scene has sparked outrage online, with Kenyans and public figures condemning the apparent lack of dignity, restraint, or medical attention afforded to the man.
Celebrities React: “This Is Heartbreaking”
Mulamwah, one of Kenya’s most followed comedians, reposted the video and simply described it as “heartbreaking,” capturing the national mood of grief and disbelief.
Fellow entertainer Oga Obinna expressed his frustration and sadness, stating:
“What is happening to my country? The ones who should protect us are the ones harming and killing us… When will it be enough?”
Singer Okello Max pointed to a pattern of cover-ups in police misconduct cases, writing:
“Kisha watasema he broke into station to steal a gun.”
(“Then they’ll say he broke into the station to steal a gun.”)
Content creator Lydia Wanjiru could only plead:
“God please do something. ANYTHING.”
DJ Double Trouble, reflecting the fatigue many Kenyans feel from a week of shocking news, added:
“Yaani kuingia online hizi wiki lazima upigwe na shock.”
(“This week, every time you go online, you’re hit with shock.”)
Public Condemnation Grows
The video has galvanized a massive online response, with ordinary citizens joining celebrities in expressing disgust.
“They can’t even accord him the dignity of carrying him. This is a crime against humanity.” – @amymuraguri
“Even wild animals behave better.” – @thee_beast3
Calls for accountability are growing louder, with Kenyans demanding the identities of the officers involved and an immediate independent investigation into the incident.
Saba Saba Violence: A Larger Crisis
The video emerged during a volatile Saba Saba Day, when protests erupted across major cities including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kiambu, and Meru. The demonstrations, sparked by the recent police custody death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, quickly turned violent. At least 10 people were confirmed dead, with scores injured as police clashed with demonstrators.
The footage has intensified scrutiny on police conduct, already under fire for use of live ammunition, tear gas, and plain-clothed operatives during the protests.
A Moment of Reckoning
Human rights organizations have condemned the video as evidence of systemic abuse and are demanding swift action. Civil society leaders warn that such actions, if left unpunished, could further alienate a disillusioned public—particularly the youth, who were at the forefront of the protests.
The National Police Service has not yet issued a statement regarding the specific video, but pressure is mounting from both local and international observers for a transparent response.
Conclusion: A Nation Demands Answers
The graphic image of a man, nearly naked and dragged like cargo by state agents, has become a symbol of a deeper problem facing Kenya: the urgent need for police accountability and the protection of human rights.
As voices from the entertainment industry, civil society, and the general public unite in outrage, the government’s next move will be closely watched. For many Kenyans, this is more than just a viral video—it is a painful reminder of the cost of silence and the price of impunity.
Aftermath of Saba Saba: Kenya Counts the Cost of Protest and Repression
July 7, 2025—Saba Saba Day—was once again marked by nationwide protests in Kenya, but this year’s demonstrations ended in deadly confrontations, raising urgent questions about the state’s handling of public dissent, police accountability, and the country’s democratic health.
What began as peaceful commemorations of a historic struggle for multiparty democracy quickly spiraled into violent clashes between protesters and security forces in several counties. By the end of the day, at least 10 people were confirmed dead, with dozens more injured, including over 50 police officers. Human rights groups and observers described the state’s response as excessive, militarized, and in some cases, unlawful.
Deaths, Injuries, and Disruption
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) confirmed 10 fatalities, while police sources cited 11 deaths during confrontations in Nairobi, Nyeri, Eldoret, Embu, Nakuru, and Kisumu. Tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and, in some cases, live ammunition were used to disperse crowds.
In Nairobi’s Kangemi and Mathare neighborhoods, and in parts of Nakuru and Kisii, protesters lit bonfires, chanted anti-government slogans, and clashed with police. Reports emerged of police officers operating in unmarked cars and plain clothes, accompanied by groups armed with machetes and whistles—raising fears of state-linked vigilante tactics.
Origins of the Unrest
The 2025 Saba Saba protests were inflamed by the death of Albert Ojwang, a teacher and digital activist who died in police custody in June. Six people, including three police officers, are facing murder charges in connection with his death. His case became a symbol of wider frustrations over police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and systemic impunity.
However, the protests were not just about Ojwang. They tapped into deeper national grievances: rising cost of living, youth unemployment, mistrust in public institutions, and growing discontent with President William Ruto’s administration.
Police Lockdowns and Public Reaction
In anticipation of unrest, police effectively shut down Nairobi, erecting roadblocks across major highways and access points. Malls and schools remained closed, and movement into the city was restricted.
The government described these measures as necessary to maintain public order. Interior officials warned against participation in “illegal assemblies” and cited risks of infiltration by criminal elements. Yet many saw the state’s response as a deliberate attempt to suppress constitutionally protected dissent.
Civil society leaders expressed alarm at what they called a systematic effort to criminalize protest. “The use of unmarked vehicles, armed gangs, and plain-clothed police officers is a clear indication of an intent to intimidate,” said one human rights defender.
Voices from the Ground
Among the victims were young demonstrators, some of whom were seen chanting for justice and democratic accountability before being violently dispersed. Families of those killed or injured have begun speaking out, demanding government action and an independent inquiry.
One protester in Kisumu, who survived a police beating, said, “We came out to demand dignity and justice—not to be hunted like criminals.”
Looking Ahead
Pressure is mounting on the Ruto administration to explain the disproportionate use of force and clarify its position on the right to protest. Human rights groups are calling for:
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An independent investigation into protest-related deaths and injuries
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Immediate release of any unlawfully detained demonstrators
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Accountability for police officers involved in extrajudicial conduct
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Concrete steps to implement police reforms long promised but rarely enforced
As Kenya prepares for future elections and continues to grapple with youth-led civic movements, the legacy of Saba Saba remains more relevant than ever. What was once a day to remember Kenya’s turn toward democracy has now become a recurring reminder of how fragile that democracy still is.
Conclusion
The 2025 Saba Saba protests have once again brought to the forefront Kenya’s unresolved tensions between state authority and civil liberty. While the government may have succeeded in limiting the scale of this year’s demonstrations through lockdowns and intimidation, it has failed to silence the message.
From Nairobi to Nyeri, from social media threads to street vigils, one truth echoed loudly: the struggle for justice, dignity, and accountability in Kenya is far from over.
Burna Boy Turns 34: Opens Up About Fatherhood Plans
Nigerian music icon Burna Boy marked his 34th birthday on July 2 with more than just celebrations—he offered a rare glimpse into his evolving personal life. Known for his commanding stage presence and global influence in Afrobeats, Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, used the occasion to reflect on fatherhood, suggesting he may soon take a step he once avoided: having children.
During a candid moment at his birthday celebration in Lagos, the Grammy-winning artist revealed that a recent conversation with Nigerian businessman Jowizaza made him reconsider his long-held stance on parenting. Speaking in Nigerian Pidgin, Burna Boy shared:
“Na so Jowizaza follow me talk the last time, I come dey think about my life. Omo, I don dey old oh, I for begin born pikins.”
The artist’s comment, roughly translating to “I’m getting old; maybe it’s time to start having kids,” sparked a wave of reactions among fans and followers, many of whom have long speculated about his views on family life.
A Shift in Perspective
This revelation marks a noticeable shift from Burna Boy’s previous statements. In May 2024, he told fans during an Instagram Live session that he wasn’t ready for fatherhood, citing the demanding nature of his career and the instability it brings.
“Because I don’t want to have kids yet… I know I can’t give that to anyone right now with the life I live.”
Back then, Burna Boy stressed that he wanted to emulate the support and presence he received from his own parents, and wouldn’t rush into fatherhood until he could offer the same.
Why Now?
Turning 34 may have brought a new sense of clarity. According to sources close to the artist, Burna Boy has been reflecting more on legacy, personal growth, and what the next chapter of his life could look like beyond music and global tours. His introspective tone during his birthday suggests a desire for deeper connection and stability.
Influence from peers like Jowizaza—whose own lifestyle choices seem to contrast with Burna Boy’s current bachelorhood—may have also played a part in this change of heart.
What It Means for Fans and His Future
The possibility of fatherhood could signal a new phase in Burna Boy’s life, one that may influence not only his personal journey but also his artistry. Fans are already speculating on how this shift could reflect in his future music—possibly leading to more introspective themes and emotional depth.
Some have expressed excitement, welcoming the idea of Burna Boy embracing a family-oriented identity, while others see it as a sign of his maturity and personal evolution.
Still the African Giant
Despite his personal reflections, Burna Boy remains firmly rooted in his music career. His global influence continues to grow, and he remains one of the most celebrated African artists of his generation. Known for hits like “Ye,” “Last Last,” and “City Boys,” Burna Boy has redefined the soundscape of modern African music and shows no signs of slowing down.
Conclusion
Burna Boy’s birthday wasn’t just a celebration of another year—it was a turning point. His openness about considering fatherhood offers fans a rare window into the man behind the music. As he moves into this new chapter, it’s clear that Burna Boy is not just thinking about hits and headlines anymore—he’s thinking about legacy, love, and life beyond the spotlight.
