June 26, 2025 – Destruction in Kikuyu as Protests Mark Anti-Finance Bill Anniversary
What began as a peaceful demonstration in Kikuyu town, Kiambu County, quickly spiraled into chaos as protesters set fire to government buildings, including the Kikuyu Law Courts and sub-county offices, in a violent turn of events on June 25, 2025.
The protests, marking the first anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z-led anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, saw unprecedented destruction, with vehicles, tractors, and tuk-tuks also torched. In response, detectives have launched a sweeping investigation, leading to the arrest of 25 suspects.
A Day of Chaos: Government Property Destroyed
Eyewitnesses described scenes of pandemonium as protesters, some armed with crude weapons, stormed government offices, vandalizing property before setting them alight. The Kikuyu Law Courts, a key judicial facility, was left in ruins, with critical documents destroyed in the inferno.
Adjacent buildings, including the Kikuyu Sub-County offices, were also targeted, leaving civil servants stranded as flames engulfed the structures. Several government vehicles, including tractors and tuk-tuks, were reduced to smoldering wrecks.
Local businessman James Mwangi told the BBC: “I’ve never seen such anger. People were shouting, throwing stones, and within minutes, the courts were up in flames. It was terrifying.”
Police Response and Arrests
The National Police Service swiftly moved to contain the violence, deploying anti-riot officers to disperse the crowds. By nightfall, detectives had begun combing through CCTV footage and witness statements to identify the perpetrators.
So far, 25 suspects have been arrested and arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Ruiru. Prosecutors successfully obtained a 14-day custodial order to allow detectives more time to complete investigations.
Authorities have also recovered stolen items, including two steel windows, a steel door, and a water tank, looted from the County Government’s physical planning offices. The items were found abandoned in bushes in Mai-ii-hii and Kabete.
Protesters’ Motives: A Repeat of 2024 Unrest?
The protests appear to have been fueled by lingering frustrations over last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, where youth-led movements clashed with police over tax hikes. Although the 2024 protests eventually subsided, economic hardships and perceived government inaction have kept tensions high.
Political analyst Grace Muthoni noted: “This isn’t just about the Finance Bill anymore. It’s about unemployment, high living costs, and a feeling that the government isn’t listening. When people feel unheard, protests can turn violent.”
Government Condemns Violence, Vows Justice
In a statement, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki condemned the destruction, warning that those responsible would face the law.
“The government respects the right to protest, but arson and vandalism are criminal acts. We will pursue every individual involved and ensure they are prosecuted,” he said.
The National Police Service has urged the public to avoid violent demonstrations, emphasizing that peaceful protests are protected under the Constitution, but destruction of property will not be tolerated.
What Happens Next?
With investigations ongoing, authorities expect more arrests in the coming days. Meanwhile, repair costs for the damaged buildings are estimated to run into millions of shillings, further straining county resources.
Residents of Kikuyu are left picking up the pieces, with many expressing mixed feelings—sympathizing with protesters’ grievances but condemning the destruction.
“We all want change, but burning down courts won’t solve anything,” said local teacher Ann Wanjiku. “Now, where will people seek justice?”
As tensions remain high, the government faces mounting pressure to address underlying economic grievances before further unrest erupt.
Key Takeaways:
- Violent protests in Kikuyu destroyed government buildings, including courts and offices.
- 25 suspects arrested, stolen property recovered in ongoing police operations.
- Protests mark one year since 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
- Authorities warn against further violence, vow to prosecute offenders.
- Economic frustrations remain a driving force behind unrest.
