Celebrated Kenyan rapper and activist Henry Ohanga, popularly known as Octopizzo, has issued a powerful condemnation of the ongoing police violence against unarmed civilians, warning that Kenya is “facing a grave human rights crisis.” His statement follows deadly Saba Saba protests held on Monday, July 7, 2025, during which at least 11 people were confirmed dead by the National Police Service (NPS).
In a message shared across his verified social media accounts late Monday night, Octopizzo mourned the rising number of protestors and innocent civilians allegedly killed by police in recent weeks. He accused state security agencies of turning against the very people they are mandated to protect.
Kenya is facing a grave human rights crisis. The right to life enshrined in Article 26 of our Constitution and international human rights law is being violated by the very forces meant to uphold it,” Octopizzo wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
This is not law enforcement; it is state-sanctioned violence”
Octopizzo, known for championing social justice through both music and advocacy, said that what initially appeared as a crackdown on protesters has now escalated into extra-judicial executions, with reports of unarmed citizens being shot—even inside their homes.
What began as the killing of protestors has now escalated to the execution of unarmed civilians, some shot from their homes without charge or trial. This is not law enforcement; it is state-sanctioned violence,” he stated.
The rapper further sent a message of solidarity to grieving families, affirming that their loss and pain had not gone unnoticed.
To the families grieving loved ones who simply demanded justice and a better Kenya, we see you, we stand with you, and we will not be silent. Calling for change should never be a death sentence.”
Context: Saba Saba Protest Casualties
Octopizzo’s remarks were published just hours after the National Police Service released a statement acknowledging 11 civilian deaths and 567 arrests during the Saba Saba protests. According to NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the police were responding to acts of lawlessness and attacks on officers.
In total, the police reported:
- 11 civilians killed
- 11 civilians injured
- 52 officers injured
- 567 people arrested, including sitting MP Gitonga Mukunji
- Multiple vehicles damaged, including police and civilian property
However, civil society groups and independent observers have contested the government’s numbers, suggesting the death toll could be significantly higher and alleging widespread use of excessive force by security forces. Human rights groups such as Amnesty Kenya, KNCHR, and IMLU have launched independent investigations into the events of July 7.
Artists and Activists Speak Out
Octopizzo joins a growing number of Kenyan artists, clergy, and public figures who have spoken out against the increasing militarization of protest response by the state. His statement adds pressure on the government to address concerns over police brutality, lack of accountability, and the erosion of civil liberties.
As anger mounts over the violent suppression of dissent, youth-led movements have vowed to continue peaceful resistance until their voices are heard.
