Kenya has been gripped by renewed unrest following efforts by authorities to silence media coverage of nationwide protests. Several television stations were pulled off the air after defying an order to stop live broadcasts of the demonstrations. However, they resumed broadcasting later on Wednesday after a court in Nairobi suspended the directive from the Communications Authority of Kenya.

Protests erupted in multiple locations across the country. NTV reported isolated clashes in the port city of Mombasa, with demonstrations also taking place in Kitengela, Kisii, Matuu, and Nyeri. The unrest is rooted in longstanding frustrations over police brutality and unresolved grievances from previous protests.

Although last year's demonstrations faded after President William Ruto withdrew proposed tax hikes, public anger has remained, especially following the death of a popular blogger and teacher, Albert Ojwang, while in police custody. His death has become a powerful symbol for a generation demanding justice and accountability from the state.

On Tuesday, six individuals including three police officers were charged with the murder of Ojwang. All six pleaded not guilty. His death has rekindled painful memories of last year’s protests, during which dozens of demonstrators disappeared or were allegedly killed at the hands of security forces.

"We are fighting for the rights of our fellow youths and Kenyans and the people who died since June 25... we want justice," said protester Lumumba Harmony in Nairobi, speaking to Reuters.

The unprecedented scenes of June 25, 2024, when demonstrators breached barricades and entered parliament while police opened fire, have been described as the most serious crisis of President Ruto’s term. The images shocked the nation and triggered alarm among Kenya’s international allies.

As the protests continue, they are increasingly shaped by a demand not only for justice in the case of Ojwang, but for sweeping reforms to address police violence, political repression, and social inequality.