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Ruto Orders Police to Shoot Violent Protesters in the Leg as UN Seeks Independent Inquiry

Kenyan leader’s directive has intensified scrutiny of the crackdown that left 31 dead during the Saba Saba Day protests, prompting rights bodies to demand an independent investigation.

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ADDITION: CLARIFIES DATE - Anti-riot police barricade roads to Parliament buildings with razor wire, ahead of demonstrations to mark the historic 1990 Saba Saba (a Swahili word that means seven seven) protests for democratic reforms in Nairobi, Kenya, Monday, July 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
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Overview

  • At least 31 people were killed nationwide during Saba Saba Day protests as police fired on demonstrators in multiple counties.
  • President William Ruto instructed officers to shoot looters and vandals in the leg to incapacitate them rather than use lethal force.
  • Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen had previously ordered police to “shoot and kill” protesters approaching stations, drawing widespread condemnation.
  • The UN Human Rights Office and Kenya National Commission on Human Rights have called for transparent, independent inquiries into the protest-related deaths and alleged excessive force.
  • Families of those killed and opposition figures are demanding justice after the wave of youth-led demonstrations over high living costs, corruption and police brutality.