By Samuel Ouma
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has confirmed that the death toll in connection with the Saba Saba 2025 demonstrations held across the country on July 7 has increased to 31.
The shocking figure was released in a public statement issued Tuesday evening, as the national outcry over police brutality and civil unrest continues to mount.
In addition to the fatalities, the KNCHR documented 107 injuries, 2 enforced disappearances, and 532 arrests. There was also widespread destruction of property, though the full extent of the damage remains unquantified.
The independent rights body stated that it is still actively monitoring reports from across the country and following up on all incidents related to the protests, which were sparked by growing public frustration over governance, corruption, extrajudicial killings, and economic hardship.
“The KNCHR strongly condemns all Human Rights violations and urges accountability from all responsible parties — including police, civilians, and all other stakeholders,” the statement read.
The Commission also extended its condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wished a quick recovery to the injured.
Citizens are encouraged to share information or report human rights concerns by SMS to 22359, email to complaint@knchr.org, or via toll-free line 0800 720 627.
The Saba Saba protests — named after the historic July 7th movement for democratic reform — have become a symbol of civic resistance in recent years. This year’s turnout was especially significant, as thousands of young people mobilized nationwide in what began as peaceful demonstrations.
However, reports from various counties indicated confrontations between demonstrators and police, including the use of live ammunition, tear gas, and mass arrests — leading to what human rights defenders have termed a national crisis.
Local and international human rights organizations are now calling for urgent investigations, transparency from the government, and protection for survivors and whistleblowers.
