Saba Saba 2025 Kenya protests are against police brutality and William Ruto’s reign, which is full of economic challenges, corruption, lack of government accountability and human rights violations in Kenya, according to human rights activists.
Kenya is bracing for nationwide protests on Saba Saba Day, July 7, 2025, commemorating the historic 1990 pro-democracy demonstrations that challenged autocratic rule.
The planned Saba Saba 2025 protests, fuelled by widespread discontent with President William Ruto’s administration, are driven by economic challenges, allegations of systemic corruption, and escalating incidents of police brutality.
Activists, including outspoken lawyer Dr. Miguna Miguna, are rallying citizens through social media platforms to demand accountability and systemic change.
The protests follow a violent year, with the June 25, 2025, demonstrations resulting in at least 16 deaths and over 400 injuries, largely attributed to police brutality, according to Amnesty International.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) faced a shocking attack on July 6, when an armed gang of 20 men stormed its headquarters during a press conference calling for an end to arbitrary arrests and extrajudicial killings.
“The gate was locked, but they forced themselves in, attacking and robbing people, saying, ‘You are planning protests here,’” an AFP journalist reported.
The Women’s Collective, a co-organiser, condemned the assault, highlighting the growing threats to human rights advocates.
Economic stagnation, with Kenya’s public debt at 68% of GDP, and controversial tax measures under the Finance Bill 2025 have intensified public anger.
Despite Ruto withdrawing the 2024 Finance Bill after protests that killed over 60 people, new taxes and a Kenya Revenue Authority data-sharing proposal have reignited grievances.
People’s calls, including a July 6 post encouraging self-defence against “goons”, reflect the movement’s intensity.
The government’s heavy-handed response, including reported plans to deploy the elite KDF Green Berets and media censorship, has drawn criticism.
The KHRC and activists like Nerima Wako warn that such actions fuel further unrest. As Saba Saba 2025 unfolds, Kenya faces a pivotal moment, with Gen Z and civil society demanding justice and reform amid a tense political climate.
