NAIROBI — The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has confirmed that 31 people died and 107 others sustained injuries during the Saba Saba protests held across the country on July 7in a press statement issued on July 8th. The Commission also recorded 532 arrests, two enforced disappearances, and widespread destruction of property.
In a statement released Tuesday evening, KNCHR condemned the violence and called for immediate accountability from police officers, civilians, and all involved in the chaos.
“The Commission strongly condemns all human rights violations and urges accountability from all responsible parties,” said Dr. Raymond Nyeris, Vice Chairperson of KNCHR. “We extend our condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”
The Commission is still monitoring the situation and collecting evidence related to human rights violations. According to KNCHR, the data was compiled from verified reports across multiple protest locations nationwide.
KNCHR has urged the public to report any further violations. The Commission provided a toll-free line, SMS number, and email for witnesses or victims to submit information.
“We encourage all Kenyans with relevant information to come forward,” the statement stated. “Justice cannot be served without full public cooperation.”
The demonstrations, which are youth-led protests against government refusal to dialogue and address concerns of Gen Z and millennial concerns of job creation, economic empowerment ,rise of corruption in the government, quickly escalated into violent confrontations between demonstrators and security forces.
Reports from protest hotspots in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nakuru pointed to the use of live ammunition, tear gas, and mass arrests by police. Eyewitness footage and rights groups have raised concerns over excessive force and abuse of power.
KNCHR has called for an independent and transparent investigation into all deaths and injuries linked to the protests. The Commission insists that both law enforcement and civilians who committed violent acts must be held responsible through due legal process.
The growing national unrest has triggered widespread calls for dialogue, police reform, and respect for civil liberties.
KNCHR continues to provide legal support to affected families and detainees. The agency reminded state authorities that Kenya’s Constitution protects the right to peaceful protest, due process, and freedom from torture and arbitrary detention.
The Commission’s report comes amid increasing scrutiny of police conduct and President William Ruto’s recent remarks acknowledging the constitution does not allow police officers to shoot protestors however remarks officers to shoot looters in the leg a directive that legal experts and rights advocates argue violates the law.
KNCHR said it will issue a comprehensive report once its investigations are complete.
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