Amnesty International: Kenya protests surge 29% as fuel prices drive demonstrations

Kenya experienced a 29% increase in protests in the first half of 2026, with 453 demonstrations compared to 453 in the same period last year, according to the latest Kenya Freedom Index by Odipo Dev and Amnesty International Kenya. The report documented 1,292 protest events across the country between January 2025 and June 2026. Economic pressures, particularly fuel price hikes, emerged as the primary trigger for the surge in demonstrations, alongside food, housing, and education issues.

The national government was the largest target of protests, with 183 documented events, similar to the 184 protests targeting the government during the entire 2025. Residents and community groups formed the backbone of the protest movement, while students remained among the most organized. Peaceful marches were the most common form of protest, although road blockages and other disruptive actions also increased.

The report documented an escalation in police use of force, including lethal force, and arrests, which reached 73% of the previous year's total by the end of June 2026. Amnesty International Kenya Executive Director George Morara urged authorities to protect peaceful demonstrations and ensure the right to peaceful assembly is respected and protected under Kenya's Constitution and international human rights law.