Ministry of Interior Sparks Uproar With Edited Protest Footage and Controversial Captions
On Sunday, the Ministry of Interior released a seven-minute, twenty-second video attempting to frame the government’s version of the June 25 protests, during which 19 Kenyans lost their lives.
But instead of calming tensions, the video ignited a firestorm online. Kenyans accused the ministry of manipulating the narrative and disrespecting the dead and wounded.
“This is a mockery of the peaceful protests held by the youth,”
wrote one X user.“This is why we must return to the streets—because this government keeps playing games with us.”
“Gen Z Madness” and “Briefcase NGOs”? Kenyans Say Enough!
The video used highly provocative captions such as:
“Violent Protests,” “Gen Z Madness,” “Briefcase NGOs,” and “Gutter Press.”
It ended with a patriotic-sounding statement:
“Kenya is a nation built on order, a freedom also fought for. Our criminal justice system will prevail.”
But many Kenyans didn’t buy the message. Instead, they slammed the ministry for whitewashing police brutality and trying to paint protesters as criminals.
“I’ve lived long enough to witness a whole Interior Ministry—meant to protect Kenyans—turn into a propaganda arm,”
said another outraged Kenyan.“This President is obsessed with applause and validation. Kenya has fallen so badly.”
Missing in Action: The Truth
The video carefully avoided showing scenes of police violence, including alleged extrajudicial killings, abductions, and sexual violence—all documented by local and international observers.
Instead, it focused on looting, burning police stations, and damaged property. Many called this a deliberate distortion of facts.
“Funny how it’s only chaos you see,”
wrote another user.“Where’s the footage of peaceful protesters being tear-gassed outside Central Police Station?”
Human Rights Watchdogs Condemn State Actions
According to a KNCHR report dated June 27, the protests left 19 dead, 531 injured, and saw 179 arrests. The commission also confirmed:
- 15 enforced disappearances
- Two cases of rape
- Two gang rapes
- One attempted gang rape
KNCHR strongly condemned the human rights abuses and demanded state accountability.
“Protesters were peaceful until tear gas was launched mid-morning,”
wrote one post.“Mombasa remained calm because police there protected protesters.”
Public Trust Dwindling Fast
Tagging institutions like the Judiciary, ODPP, NPS, and DCI, the video seemed to pressure the justice system into backing the state’s version of events. Critics say this deepens mistrust between citizens and government.
“This is not leadership. It’s propaganda with a badge,”
a user lamented.
As tensions remain high, Kenyans are demanding not just justice, but truth
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Ministry of Interior Sparks Uproar With Edited Protest Footage and Controversial Captions
