What began as a day of civic expression ended in tragedy for many across Kenya as the “Saba Saba” protests turned violent, claiming the lives of 11 people and injuring dozens more? The streets, meant to echo with the voices of citizens calling for change, were instead filled with sirens, smoke, and sorrow.
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In a press release issued late Monday, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed the grim toll: 11 lives lost, 63 injured, including 52 police officers and 11 civilians, and hundreds arrested. Among the detained is Hon. Gitonga Mukunji, Member of Parliament for Manyatta Constituency.
Tensions erupted in several cities and towns as peaceful marches were reportedly hijacked by individuals who turned to looting, vandalism, and violence. What was meant to be a national moment of reflection and protest quickly spiralled into chaos.
The NPS detailed the destruction: 12 police vehicles, 3 government cars, and 4 private vehicles were damaged or destroyed. The total number of arrests reached 567, raising questions about the scale of the crackdown and the depth of the unrest.
“We commend the majority of Kenyans who acted within the law,” said NPS Spokesperson Muchai Nyaga. “But a minority chose destruction over dialogue.”
Yet amid the turmoil, a quiet courage emerged, from the officers on the ground who, according to the NPS, showed “exceptional restraint,” to the protesters who braved tear gas and arrests to raise their voices. The police thanked their personnel for maintaining discipline even as tempers flared and stones flew.
Behind the statistics are shattered families and grieving communities. Eleven families will never see their loved ones return home. Injured officers and civilians alike are now recovering in hospitals, their wounds a painful reminder of a country grappling with tension, inequality, and political frustration.
Authorities have urged members of the public to help identify individuals who engaged in criminal acts. Kenyans can report tips via police stations or through toll-free lines: 999, 911, 112, or the Fichua kwa DCI number 0800 722 203.
The NPS closed its statement with a promise: every case will be investigated, and justice will be pursued, both for those who committed crimes and for those who fell victim to them.
As the country wakes up to the aftermath of a bloodied Saba Saba, Kenyans are left to ask: How many more must suffer before the voices of the people are truly heard?
