Kenyan police detained hundreds of people and fired tear gas on Thursday as families of those killed in anti-government protests two years ago marched to Parliament to demand compensation and justice. The demonstrations marked the anniversary of protests triggered by tax increases, during which at least 60 people were killed when police opened fire outside Parliament in Nairobi.
Families of the victims are protesting a lack of transparency in the government's promised reparations program. President William Ruto had stated that the protests would be permitted but warned against attempts to disrupt the country. Police established roadblocks on major highways leading into Nairobi, and the Parliament building was barricaded, with many businesses closed.
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen reported that 355 individuals, described as "criminals," were arrested in Nairobi and other towns, stating the measures were necessary to protect businesses and prevent chaos. Journalists and witnesses, however, indicated that many ordinary citizens appeared to be among those detained. Police also used tear gas on protesters outside Nairobi's main police station who attempted to deliver a petition.
Opposition leaders supported the marchers, calling for transparency in the government's $15 million compensation program. The protests in June 2024 saw thousands of young Kenyans storm Parliament to oppose a finance bill that proposed tax increases amid a rising cost of living. Police responded by opening fire outside the building, resulting in dozens of deaths.
President Ruto stated last week that the government compensation is "a state acknowledgment that harm occurred" but not an admission of guilt. He added that the compensation should not be perceived as a "reward for violence or criminality," in a country where such protests are not uncommon.
Several opposition figures, including former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka and former Justice Minister Martha Karua, marched with activists and victims' families, laying wreaths at barricades surrounding Parliament. Edith Wanjiku, whose 19-year-old son died from gunshot wounds, said her family has not received compensation despite submitting documents. "Only two out of 10 families whose children were shot that day near Parliament have been compensated and we are wondering what criteria the government is using," she told The Associated Press.
Gillian Munyao, whose son was also killed, emphasized that compensation cannot replace justice. "Arrest the killer cops, that's my message to the government," she stated. Makau Mutua, chair of the compensation panel, confirmed on Wednesday that the process is ongoing and all verified claims will be paid. Three police officers have been charged in connection with the deaths of protesters.