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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:

  • Increased scrutiny of police conduct, especially during high-tension operations.

  • Calls for clearer use-of-force guidelines to prevent extrajudicial violence.

  • Protection for whistleblowers and ethical officers like Kimanthi.

  • 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.

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“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.

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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:

  • Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry – 11 months

  • Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Delivery and Performance Management – 9 months

  • 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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:

  • An independent investigation into protest-related deaths and injuries

  • Immediate release of any unlawfully detained demonstrators

  • Accountability for police officers involved in extrajudicial conduct

  • 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.

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Saba Saba Explained: Kenya’s Enduring Struggle for Rights

Saba Saba, Swahili for “Seven Seven,” refers to July 7, a date deeply etched into Kenya’s political and civic history. What began as a call for multiparty democracy in the early 1990s has since evolved into an enduring symbol of protest, civic resistance, and the demand for accountability from those in power.

The Origins: Saba Saba 1990

On July 7, 1990, thousands of Kenyans took to the streets to demand the return of multiparty democracy during President Daniel arap Moi’s one-party regime. At the time, political pluralism was outlawed, and dissent was met with repression. Opposition figures like Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga spearheaded the movement, calling for political reforms and democratic freedoms.

What followed was a violent state crackdown. Protesters were arrested, others beaten or killed, and media coverage was heavily censored. Still, the pressure forced the Moi government to relent, and in 1991, Kenya formally repealed Section 2A of the constitution, restoring multiparty democracy.

Evolution of Saba Saba

Since that pivotal moment, Saba Saba has come to represent more than just political reform. It has become a rallying cry for marginalized voices, activists, civil society, and youth movements pushing back against social injustice, economic inequality, police brutality, and corruption.

Over the years, Saba Saba commemorations have been marked by peaceful protests, vigils, art installations, and sometimes, renewed confrontations with state security forces. The day has been embraced by both older-generation reformists and younger activists seeking a more equitable future.

Saba Saba in the 21st Century

In recent years, particularly from 2020 onward, Saba Saba protests have gained renewed energy, with younger Kenyans increasingly mobilizing through social media and grassroots networks. The issues have expanded beyond politics to include:

  • Police brutality and extrajudicial killings

  • Youth unemployment and economic exclusion

  • LGBTQ+ rights and gender-based violence

  • Calls for electoral justice and constitutional reform

This generational shift has broadened Saba Saba’s meaning—transforming it from a historical footnote into an annual check-in on Kenya’s democratic health.

The 2024 and 2025 Context

The 2024 Saba Saba protests were marked by widespread unrest following the controversial passage of the Finance Bill, which triggered nationwide demonstrations. Dozens were killed or injured in clashes with police, and many protesters were detained or reported missing. Civil society organizations condemned the government’s heavy-handed response and renewed calls for structural change.

In 2025, Saba Saba has taken on a deeper urgency. Youth-led movements are organizing across counties, with themes focused on restoring constitutionalism, demanding accountability for police abuses, and opposing policies seen as oppressive or elitist. The events are unfolding in a climate of political polarization, economic hardship, and growing distrust in state institutions.

Why Saba Saba Still Matters

More than three decades since that first wave of protests, Saba Saba continues to matter because the core demands remain relevant. Kenyans are still fighting for:

  • Transparent governance

  • Freedom of expression and assembly

  • Social and economic inclusion

  • A government that listens, not dictates

The struggle now, as in 1990, is about voice, dignity, and justice. Saba Saba serves as a powerful reminder that democracy is not a one-time achievement, but a continuous effort by citizens to hold power to account.

Conclusion

Saba Saba is not just a day—it’s a mirror. It reflects Kenya’s hard-won democratic progress, but also exposes the ongoing challenges to freedom, equity, and accountability. As each July 7 passes, Kenyans reaffirm their right to demand better, to remember those who sacrificed for democracy, and to insist that the promises of the constitution are not just written—but lived.

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Summer Tides Festival in Diani Ends in Controversy Over Police Crackdown

The highly anticipated Summer Tides Festival, held on July 4–5 at Jacaranda Beach Hotel in Diani, Kwale County, brought together thousands of young people from across the country for two days of music, culture, and coastal adventure. However, the festival’s celebratory atmosphere was overshadowed by a controversial police operation that unfolded just hours after the event concluded.

Billed as one of East Africa’s top beach festivals, Summer Tides featured an exciting lineup of performers, including DJ Joe Mfalme, Tophaz, Kaneda, Kym Nickdee, and Redbone. Attendees enjoyed beach games, water sports, yoga sessions, art exhibitions, and a vibrant night scene across two main stages. The event attracted not only partygoers but also influencers, creatives, and entrepreneurs eager to unwind at the Kenyan coast.

But what was meant to be a seamless end to a fun-filled weekend turned chaotic on July 6, as travelers attempting to return to Nairobi and other cities were caught in massive traffic snarl-ups caused by unexpected police roadblocks. The most critical disruption occurred at the Likoni Ferry and Dongo Kundu bypass near Mombasa, where hundreds of vehicles were stopped. Many passengers were headed to the Miritini SGR station or Moi International Airport to catch evening trains and flights.

According to witnesses, delays extended for hours, with some travelers forced to abandon their taxis and board boda bodas in a desperate attempt to reach their destinations on time. Kenya Railways ultimately cancelled the 10 PM Mombasa–Nairobi train, citing logistical challenges arising from the sudden influx of stranded passengers.

The Kenya Police Service maintained that the operation was a standard road safety measure designed to prevent drunk driving among festival attendees. Officers at the checkpoints conducted alco-blow tests and vehicle inspections, reportedly in the interest of public safety along the busy Mombasa–Nairobi corridor.

However, the timing of the operation sparked speculation and backlash. Critics, including human rights activist Hussein Khalid, alleged that the move was politically motivated and intended to block youths from traveling to Nairobi to participate in the Saba Saba protests scheduled for the following day, July 7. Several videos circulated online showed groups of stranded young people chanting protest slogans and expressing frustration with the security operation.

Local residents and tourism stakeholders expressed concern over the disruption. Taxi drivers complained of lost income, while hotel operators worried that such aggressive law enforcement tactics could harm Diani’s image as a peaceful tourist destination. “They should let people enjoy and leave the coast in peace. These unnecessary delays will only scare away visitors,” said a Diani-based hotelier.

The controversy deepened against the backdrop of rising political tensions in Kenya. The Saba Saba Day protests, which commemorate historic struggles for democracy, were expected to draw large crowds amid growing discontent over police brutality and economic challenges. The government, however, had insisted that July 7 would be a regular working day and warned citizens against taking part in unauthorized demonstrations.

The events following Summer Tides have raised broader concerns about the state’s handling of youth gatherings, freedom of movement, and the fine line between legitimate public safety measures and politically charged crackdowns. For many who attended the festival, the experience ended on a sour note, transforming what should have been a celebration of art and culture into a flashpoint for national debate.

As questions linger about the motives behind the police blockade, the Summer Tides incident may come to symbolize the growing tension between Kenya’s vibrant youth culture and a political climate increasingly wary of its mobilizing power.

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2Mbili Responds to Allegations of Inciting Mob to Torch Mawego Police Station

Kenyan social media personality and comedian 2Mbili has addressed recent claims that he incited a mob to burn down Mawego Police Station in Homa Bay County. The accusations emerged in the aftermath of the chaotic funeral of blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody under controversial circumstances.

Former police spokesperson Charles Owino accused 2Mbili of playing a central role in the unrest, alleging that he led a group of mourners who stormed the police station with the deceased’s body and set it on fire. According to Owino, “There was incitement that made these young people, led by Mr 2Mbili, to grab the body and take it to the police station and eventually torch the station.”

The events unfolded during Ojwang’s burial on July 3, when tensions flared over suspicions surrounding his death. The mourners reportedly overpowered police officers, seized the body, and staged a dramatic procession that ended at the Mawego Police Station, which was later set ablaze.

In response to the allegations, 2Mbili posted a sarcastic reaction on his Instagram page, sharing a video clip of Owino’s statement and captioning it, “Mzee ameamua kunipeana tu hivo?” (Has the old man just decided to hand me over like that?), followed by laughing emojis. The post was widely shared, drawing both praise and concern from his followers.

While many of his fans found humor in the post, others questioned the wisdom of mocking such serious accusations. Some warned that legal consequences could follow if the state chooses to pursue charges.

Security analyst Kevin Osido weighed in on the controversy, cautioning against politicizing or personalizing incidents tied to public outrage. He noted that accusing high-profile influencers without solid evidence risks shifting focus away from core issues such as police brutality and accountability.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is currently investigating Ojwang’s death. Two officers have been detained, and over 20 others have been questioned as part of the inquiry. However, IPOA has not commented on the incident at the police station or 2Mbili’s alleged involvement.

As the investigation continues, Kenyans remain divided over the role of public figures in protest movements. 2Mbili’s involvement, whether symbolic or direct, underscores the growing influence of digital personalities in political and social activism.

For now, 2Mbili maintains his innocence in his trademark sarcastic tone, but the unfolding investigations may determine whether he remains simply a witness—or becomes a suspect.

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326 Views July 8, 2025 0 Comments
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