President William Ruto’s first term has been turbulent, with a series of protests sweeping the nation. Unlike earlier demonstrations centered around political personalities, these recent protests have organically mobilized Kenyans from all walks of life to demand justice, better governance, and accountability.
Here’s a look at six key protests that have kept Kenyans on the streets and left security agencies scrambling.
1. OPPOSITION-LED PROTESTS: THE EARLY DAYS OF RUTO’S PRESIDENCY
As soon as President Ruto settled into office, opposition parties led by Raila Odinga organized nationwide protests. The demonstrations focused on issues such as the high cost of living, electoral reforms, and corruption.
The bi-weekly protests saw chaos erupt in major cities, with Azimio la Umoja leaders accusing Kenya Kwanza’s policies of marginalizing ordinary citizens. Though a National Dialogue Committee was formed to address these concerns, the lasting impact of these protests remains unclear.
2. FEMICIDE AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE PROTESTS
In 2024, Kenyans took to the streets to demand an end to the growing crisis of femicide and gender-based violence.
The protests followed shocking reports that at least 97 women were killed by intimate partners between August and October alone. Victims’ families, activists, and survivors united to call for action, turning the spotlight on the alarming lack of justice for victims.
3. ABDUCTIONS AND ENFORCED DISAPPEARANCES
A wave of abductions targeted activists, influencers, and government critics in late 2024 and early 2025. These kidnappings sparked outrage, with Kenyans demanding accountability.
Although many abductees were later released, others were found dead, triggering further protests. President Ruto’s remarks that “all abductees have been reunited with their families” raised suspicions about state involvement, though security agencies denied responsibility.
4. THE GEN Z PROTESTS: A JUNE TO REMEMBER
June 2024 marked a turning point in Kenya’s history, as the Gen Z generation led widespread protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024. The demonstrations, which took place in multiple towns, escalated when protesters stormed parliament buildings.
The government’s response was harsh, with security forces opening fire on protesters, killing several. Despite President Ruto’s eventual withdrawal of the Finance Bill, the protests highlighted growing frustration with unchecked corruption and poor governance.
One year later, Kenyans commemorated the deadly protests with another wave of demonstrations, which tragically resulted in more deaths, injuries, and destruction.
5. KWARE MASSACRE: CALLS FOR JUSTICE
The discovery of decomposed bodies wrapped in sacks in Nairobi’s Kware area led to mass protests. Civil society groups and residents demanded investigations into what they called extrajudicial killings.
Authorities identified Collins Jumaisi as the main suspect but clarified the killings were unrelated to police actions. However, Jumaisi’s escape from custody has left the case unresolved, fueling public anger.
6. POLICE BRUTALITY AND EXTRAJUDICIAL KILLINGS
The chilling murder of Albert Ojwang in Homa Bay epitomized police brutality in Kenya. Arrested from his home, Ojwang was tortured and killed in custody, sparking nationwide protests.
Police initially claimed Ojwang died by suicide, a claim debunked by an autopsy that revealed signs of torture. This incident, along with the fatal shooting of an unarmed hawker, intensified demands for police accountability.
Two officers were eventually arrested, but Kenyans continue to protest against the use of excessive force.
A NATION DEMANDING CHANGE
The protests during Ruto’s presidency underscore a shifting dynamic in Kenya, where citizens are no longer waiting for political leaders to champion their causes. With issues such as economic hardship, corruption, and human rights abuses driving unrest, Kenyans are increasingly uniting to demand justice and accountability.
