A Kenyan official has faced fierce backlash after suggesting that more protesters should have been killed during recent anti-government demonstrations. Assistant Chief Thomas Cheboi of Uswo Sub-Location in Uasin Gishu County made the controversial remarks at a public burial, where he claimed the number of fatalities during the June 25th protests was “too low.”
Thomas Cheboi, a government official noted that ‘the 15 protesters who were shot dead by police are a small number and it should have been 1,000 or 2,000.
In a now-viral 47-second video, Cheboi is heard saying the death toll “should have been in the thousands,” drawing immediate condemnation from activists and social media users. The official also warned parents against allowing their children to join planned protests on 7th July, organized by Gen Z activists under the #Sabasaba movement.
Human rights groups have documented multiple deaths and injuries during recent demonstrations, with police accused of using excessive force. Cheboi’s remarks have intensified calls for accountability, with critics labelling his comments as “inciteful” and “inhumane.”
Local authorities have yet to comment on whether Cheboi will face disciplinary action. Meanwhile, activists urge restraint ahead of the upcoming protests, fearing further violence.
