Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets on June 25, 2025, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the violent anti-government demonstrations that culminated in protesters storming the parliament building. The protests originally erupted over proposed tax increases and worsening economic conditions, particularly affecting the youth, and resulted in at least 60 deaths caused by security forces during weeks of unrest.
Ahead of the anniversary, Kenyan authorities fortified government buildings with razor wire and blocked major roads leading into Nairobi’s central business district to prevent any repeat of last year’s chaos. Broadcasters were ordered to cease live coverage of the events amid fears of violence. Despite these measures, thousands of mainly young protesters marched peacefully at first, waving Kenyan flags and carrying placards bearing images of those killed during the previous protests, chanting slogans such as “Ruto must go,” targeting President William Ruto whose tax policies had ignited the unrest.
Many schools and businesses closed in anticipation of possible disturbances, while some activists called for more assertive actions, including “Occupy State House,” referring to the president’s official residence. The mood was tense as police deployed tear gas to disperse stone-throwing demonstrators in Nairobi, with additional protests reported in Mombasa and other regions.
The anniversary protests also coincided with heightened public anger over ongoing police brutality, corruption, and the recent death of a teacher in custody, which has intensified calls for justice and accountability. Families of victims and human rights groups have demanded thorough investigations into the killings and disappearances linked to security forces.
The events of June 25, 2024, remain a painful memory for many Kenyans, symbolizing the deep frustrations with the government’s handling of economic and governance issues. The anniversary rallies underscored persistent discontent among Kenya’s youth and the broader population, highlighting unresolved grievances and the urgent demand for political and social reforms.
