The death toll from anti-government protests in Kenya on Monday, July 7, 2025, has risen to 31, marking the deadliest day since the demonstrations began earlier this year, according to the state-backed human rights commission. Additionally, 107 people were injured and over 500 arrested amid widespread looting and vandalism, including attacks on supermarkets. The police confirmed similar arrest figures, though it remains unclear if security personnel are among the casualties.

For several weeks, young Kenyans and other citizens have been protesting against police brutality, government corruption, and the rising cost of living. They are also demanding the resignation of President William Ruto. The president has yet to comment on the latest unrest or its deadly outcome.

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk called for authorities to address the underlying issues driving the protests. His spokesperson urged calm, restraint, and respect for civil liberties like free expression and peaceful assembly. Monday’s protests coincided with the anniversary of the Saba Saba movement—held every July 7 to commemorate the 1990 mass protests that pressured then-President Daniel arap Moi to adopt multiparty democracy, which was achieved in 1992.

The latest wave of unrest was triggered by the death of a blogger in police custody last month. Tensions escalated further after a protester was shot point-blank by police on June 17. By June 25, large-scale youth demonstrations had erupted nationwide. In the past two weeks alone, at least 50 people have died in clashes.

The Kenya National Cohesion and Integration Commission, a presidentially appointed body, criticized the police for excessive force and urged leaders not to stoke ethnic divisions. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen recently instructed police to "shoot on sight" anyone who approached police stations during protests, following incidents of arson.

Businesses have also suffered amid the unrest. “They invaded our shop. We’ve lost so much—cash, phones, everything,” said Nancy Gicharu, a mobile phone vendor.