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Flowers, fury and fear: Demonstrators mark first anniversary of deadly anti-tax protests

National
Grace Githinji
Author: Grace Githinji
1 min.read

Kenyans are marking the first anniversary of last year’s deadly anti‑Finance Bill protests with nationwide marches today, June 25. In Nairobi, protesters are gathering early at key points while heavy security forces guard the CBD.

Security teams are blocking roads leading to Parliament and State House. Barricades and razor wire surround these areas. Officers and plainclothes agents,are patrolling alongside uniformed units to prevent unrest.

Protesters in Nairobi are chanting names of those killed last year. They’re laying flowers and lighting candles near government offices. Many are calling for accountability over the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody. Authorities recently charged six suspects, including three officers, with his murder; they have pleaded not guilty.

Ahead of the rallies, the Interior Ministry has urged protesters not to “provoke police” or enter protected zones. Meanwhile, Western embassies (including the US, UK, Canada) are warning against violence from unmarked officers and hired goons. They stress that “the use of plain clothed officers in unmarked vehicles erodes public trust.”

Police regional commander George Seda is urging calm. He says, “Officers will act within the law to protect lives and property.” Rights groups, however, warn militias may try to hijack peaceful processions.

Opposition figures are also condemning heavy-handed tactics. Former VP Kalonzo Musyoka states that it is “wicked to abduct citizens without warrants” and calls for peaceful lawfulness. Eugene Wamalwa calls today’s security deployment “a paranoid regime,” while echoing calls for calm and accountability.

Earlier, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops pleaded for restraint. Archbishop Anthony Muheria warned, “A society that instils fear in its youth for simply speaking out is a society walking away from justice.”

Despite high tension, most demonstrators are peaceful. However, clashes are reported between protests and counter-demonstrators, including incidents of violence involving makeshift groups armed with clubs. In some areas, protestors have beaten back counter-demonstrators.

City transport remains disrupted. Commuters face detours as PSVs end routes at designated drop-off zones due to road closures. Civic groups are urging participants to carry essentials like water and first-aid as a precaution.

Analysts say today mixes mourning with political protest. Youth leaders organize quiet vigils, highlighting systemic issues like police brutality and lack of state accountability.

As midday approaches, Parliament and State House precincts remain under tight guard. Police maintain a restrained presence while monitoring both protestors and reported counter-groups.

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Grace Githinji
Grace Githinji

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