Nairobi came to a standstill on Thursday as thousands of Kenyans took to the streets to commemorate the anniversary of the June 25 anti-government protests, with demonstrators demanding justice for victims of police brutality, accountability from the government and action on the country's economic challenges.
Large sections of the Central Business District (CBD) remained deserted as businesses shut their doors and public transport was disrupted amid heavy security deployment. Police erected roadblocks on major roads leading into the city centre and stationed anti-riot officers around Parliament and other key installations.
Waving Kenyan flags and carrying flowers and placards bearing the names of victims of previous demonstrations, protesters marched through parts of the city, chanting slogans and calling for justice.
"We are here because the blood of those who died cannot be forgotten. We want justice, accountability and an end to police brutality," said one demonstrator near Jeevanjee Gardens.
Another protester said the demonstrations were about safeguarding Kenya's democracy. "Young people came out because they love this country. We are demanding a Kenya where citizens can speak without fear and where lives are valued."
The demonstrations were primarily organised to honour victims of the anti-tax protests that culminated in the storming of Parliament on June 25, 2024, an event that profoundly altered Kenya's political landscape.
Former Deputy President and opposition figure Rigathi Gachagua defended the right of citizens to demonstrate peacefully and urged the government to listen to public concerns.
"Today's demonstrations are a reminder that Kenyans cannot be intimidated into silence. The government must listen to the cries of its people and address the issues they are raising instead of responding with force," Gachagua said.
Critics of the government's handling of the protests accused authorities of relying on heavy-handed tactics.
Martha Karua said the anniversary protests reflected unresolved national grievances. "The issues that brought young people onto the streets last year have not disappeared. Justice delayed is justice denied, and accountability remains a national demand."
Former Chief Justice David Maraga also called for respect for constitutional rights, saying, "The Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to assemble and express themselves peacefully. The answer to public dissent cannot be repression."
Police fired tear gas at groups attempting to move towards Parliament and other restricted areas, while security officers used water cannons to disperse crowds in several parts of the city.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen defended the extensive security deployment.
"We regret the inconvenience caused to members of the public, but our primary responsibility is to safeguard lives and property and ensure that criminal elements do not take advantage of the demonstrations," Murkomen said.
As night fell, security forces maintained a heavy presence across Nairobi, with the city gradually returning to normal after a day that served both as a solemn remembrance of lives lost and a renewed call for justice, accountability and reform.
