Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has released a damning report accusing police officers of using excessive and disproportionate force in response to recent nationwide anti-government protests that left 65 people dead and over 340 injured. The protests, which erupted over police brutality, governance concerns, and unpopular government policies, including tax reforms took place over four separate days in June and July 2025, with the deadliest being on July 7 when 41 people were killed.
According to the IPOA report released Thursday, most fatalities and injuries were directly linked to actions by law enforcement. The authority noted significant breaches of constitutional policing standards, including the use of live ammunition, a lack of professionalism, and a failure to safeguard public safety and human rights. The report also mentioned that violent elements, described as “goons,” had infiltrated the protests and contributed to the chaos, looting, and destruction of public and private property.
The unrest began on June 12 in Nairobi following the death in police custody of 25-year-old teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang. Initially reported by police as suicide, an independent investigation led to the arrest and murder charges against three officers. Protests on June 17 escalated when Boniface Kariuki, a street vendor, was shot at close range by police. He later died from his injuries, and an officer has been charged with his death.
Subsequent protests on June 23 and July 7 saw further bloodshed, mass injuries, and widespread property damage. The IPOA documented a total of 342 civilian injuries and 171 police injuries. Government institutions, businesses, and police stations were also vandalized.
President William Ruto has stirred controversy for his response, publicly instructing police to shoot protesters in the legs if they are caught destroying property. His remarks sparked outrage among rights groups, who say his orders violate the right to peaceful protest and encourage impunity.
While the Interior Ministry has blamed the violence on “criminals” and “anarchists,” rights organizations continue to condemn the government’s heavy-handed response. The IPOA’s report further fuels calls for justice, accountability, and comprehensive police reforms as Kenya faces increasing internal scrutiny and international concern over its human rights record.
This latest development underscores growing public discontent in Kenya, raising questions about leadership, accountability, and respect for constitutional freedoms in one of East Africa’s most influential democracies.
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