The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has confirmed that thirty-one people lost their lives during the Saba Saba Day protests held on Monday, July 7.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 8, KNCHR Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris revealed that one hundred and seven individuals sustained injuries, while five hundred and thirty-two others were arrested during the nationwide demonstrations.
The commission also documented two cases of enforced disappearances and widespread destruction of property, although the value of the damage is yet to be established.
“The KNCHR strongly condemns all human rights violations and urges accountability from all responsible parties — including police, civilians, and all other stakeholders,” Nyeris said. “We send our heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to all those injured.”
United Nations Raises Alarm Over Killings
The KNCHR’s statement comes in the wake of international concern, with the United Nations (UN) expressing alarm over the killings and destruction witnessed during the protests.
In a separate statement, the UN noted that at least ten people were confirmed dead during confrontations between protesters and security forces in Nairobi and at least sixteen other counties.
“We are deeply troubled by the killings, as well as the looting and destruction of property in Kenya. Lethal force, including live ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons, was used to disperse protesters,” the UN statement read.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk reiterated the need for transparency and accountability, urging the Kenyan authorities to investigate all reported incidents of excessive force and rights violations.
“The High Commissioner repeats his call for all reported killings and other alleged violations and abuses of international human rights law to be promptly, thoroughly, independently, and transparently investigated. Those responsible must be held to account,” the UN said.
Broader Call for Justice
As investigations continue, both KNCHR and the UN are urging restraint, accountability, and respect for fundamental rights — particularly the right to life, peaceful assembly, and freedom from arbitrary detention.
The Saba Saba protests, which began as youth-led demonstrations against economic hardship and poor governance, have triggered a wider debate about police conduct, civic freedoms, and the role of the state in safeguarding democracy.
