Documenting Violence Against Journalists Covering Protests in Kenya

In June 2024, mass demonstrations erupted across Kenya in opposition to the Finance Bill 2024. The bill introduced a set of new and increased taxes, including levies on bread, cooking oil, fuel, internet data, and mobile money transfers which would disproportionately burden low- and middle-income households already facing high inflation and unemployment. Youth activists and civil society groups mobilized under #RejectFinanceBill2024 but security forces repeatedly used tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Journalists were also subjected to physical assaults, arbitrary detentions, and the destruction of their equipment.

HRC’s Investigations Lab students partnered with Amnesty International’s Digital Verification Corps to document the violence against journalists covering protests in Kenya between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Students identified and verified photos and videos depicting unnecessary and excessive use of force by Kenyan police against members of the press.