Protests aftermath: Ten people dead, scores injured and property destroyed

Police officers from Sondu and Kericho police stations come to the aid of a resident with an arrowhead deeply embedded in his back. The man was shot during an anti-government protest at Sondu market. [Nikko Tanui, Standard]

Demonstrations turned tragic in Makueni after police opened fire, killing an 18-year-old boy.

The boy's mother, Miriam Mbithe, said her son had walked out of their house at Posta estate when he heard gunshots.

"He was my only son, he had completed secondary school at Matiliku Boys and scored a C+," said Mbithe.

Condemning the act, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr on Wednesday evening called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate the incident and those found culpable held accountable.

"While our security officers have the onerous duty to maintain law and order, Article 37 of the Constitution is unequivocal that every person has the right, peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket, and to present petitions to public authorities," said Mutula.

Scores were also injured and are receiving treatment at various hospitals across the country.

Property of unknown value was destroyed and looting was reported in various outlets, including a Quickmark supermarket in Waiyaki Way, Nairobi that was raided by unknown people on Wednesday evening.

Goods of unknown value were looted and the premises set on fire.

Vandalised sections of Quickmart supermarket at Mlolongo, Machakos County on July 12, 2023. [Samson Wire, Standard].

Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga says the demonstrations will continue until the Kenya Kwanza government lowers the cost of living.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Odinga's ally, says the coalition is looking at holding anti-government protests three times a week; Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.