Kenya Interior Minister Denies Police Brutality Amid Deadly Nationwide Protests

Kenya's Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen has denied allegations of police brutality during recent nationwide protests that resulted in at least 10 deaths and over 400 injuries, including nearly 300 police officers. He described the demonstrations as "terrorism disguised as dissent" and an "unconstitutional attempt" to overthrow President William Ruto's government, praising security forces for their restraint amid what he called an "attempted coup." The protests, which marked the anniversary of previous anti-government demonstrations, saw thousands rallying against economic hardship, police brutality, and Ruto’s leadership, with chants of "Ruto must go" and peaceful symbols like waving tree branches. However, the protests devolved into violence with attacks on government buildings, including the torching of five police stations and the theft of firearms, as well as widespread looting and destruction. Human rights groups like Amnesty International and the Law Society of Kenya have sharply criticized the government, reporting higher death tolls and accusing police of excessive force and unnecessary aggression. The government initially imposed a live media blackout on the protests, which was later lifted by the Nairobi High Court, but authorities continue to investigate the events amid deepening public anger.