Peter Gachanja
| Age | 28 |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | 7 July 2025 |
| Location | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Incident | Shot by police during Saba Saba Day protests |
Peter Gachanja (died 7 July 2025) was a 28-year-old Kenyan civilian who was killed by police during the Saba Saba Day protests in Nairobi. He was reportedly an unarmed civilian and was among the victims whose deaths have sparked national outrage and calls for justice.
Background
The Saba Saba Day protests on 7 July 2025 commemorated the 35th anniversary of the 1990 pro-democracy movement. The demonstrations were primarily led by Gen Z youth across Kenya, demanding reforms and accountability from the government. The protests were met with a heavy police presence, and in some areas, authorities used live ammunition to disperse crowds.
Death
According to reports, Peter Gachanja was among the five victims whose autopsies confirmed death by gunshot wounds, allegedly inflicted by police. The victims were unarmed civilians, most of them from informal settlements in Nairobi. The families and human rights activists have called for justice and accountability for the deaths.
Aftermath
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is investigating the deaths of 41 individuals, including Peter Gachanja, who were allegedly killed by police during the protests. The IPOA has faced challenges in accessing witnesses, as many fear for their safety. Families of the victims, including Gachanja's, have demanded accountability and an end to police brutality.
Legacy
Peter Gachanja's death has become a symbol of the excessive use of force by security forces during the Saba Saba Day protests. His family and human rights organizations continue to advocate for justice and reforms to prevent such incidents in the future.
References
- Autopsies confirm protest victims died from gunshot wounds – *Standard Media*, 11 July 2025.
- Families mourn those shot dead during Saba Saba demonstrations – *Standard Media*, 9 July 2025.
- Autopsies confirm protest victims died from gunshot wounds – *Standard Media*, 11 July 2025.