Kenya's Anti-Government Protests: A Nation in Turmoil
The anti-government protests in Kenya have escalated dramatically, with demonstrations turning violent in Nairobi and other cities. The protests, initially sparked by proposed new taxes in the 2024-25 draft budget, have left 22 people dead according to the Kenya National Human Rights Commission (KNHRC). On Tuesday, demonstrators stormed Parliament, a historic first for the country. The government has responded by deploying the army to support the police.
A Call for Peace Amidst Chaos
Journalist and activist Hanifa Adan, a prominent figure in the protest movement, has called for peaceful demonstrations in memory of the victims. Adan urged protesters to march peacefully wearing white to honor the fallen. Despite the government's firm stance against the protests, with President William Ruto promising to repress 'violence and anarchy,' the opposition and various NGOs, including Amnesty International, have criticized the government's heavy-handed approach.
International Concern and Human Rights Violations
The violent crackdown on protesters has alarmed the international community. The United States, European countries, the UN, and the African Union have all expressed deep concern. Amnesty International reported numerous injuries and at least one death due to the police's use of live ammunition. The main opposition coalition, Azimio, led by Raila Odinga, has accused the government of using excessive force and called for an end to the shooting of 'innocent, peaceful, and unarmed children.'
- The protests were initially peaceful, with thousands of demonstrators marching in Nairobi and other cities. However, tensions rose when police began using tear gas and rubber bullets. The situation escalated further when live ammunition was fired at the demonstrators.
- The government's proposed budget included a 16% VAT on bread and a 2.5% annual tax on private vehicles. Despite withdrawing most of these measures, the government plans to compensate with other taxes, including a 50% increase in fuel taxes.
- The scenes of chaos and violence have left the nation in shock. In Nairobi's business center, the smell of tear gas lingered, and streets bore traces of blood. Buildings were set on fire, and looting occurred in several areas. The international community has called for calm and urged the Kenyan government to respect the right to peaceful assembly.
