The anti-government protests in Kenya have escalated, resulting in at least two fatalities and numerous injuries as police opened fire on demonstrators protesting against the rising cost of living and tax increases, reports The Guardian on July 19. The opposition has called for multiple rounds of protests this month, leading to clashes between protesters and security forces in various regions, particularly in opposition strongholds like Kisumu.
The situation has triggered violence, with demonstrators hurling rocks and burning tires in the streets, while police responded with tear gas and live bullets. Schools were closed, and businesses shut down in the capital city, Nairobi, and other major cities like Mombasa and Kisumu. Protesters are expressing frustration with President William Ruto's administration, which pledged to champion the interests of the poor but has faced criticism for the rising prices of basic commodities and tax hikes.
The government contends that the tax increases on fuel and housing are necessary to address growing debt and fund job-creation initiatives. However, the protests have resulted in hundreds of arrests, including senior opposition figures, leading to accusations of constitutional violations and police brutality against peaceful protesters.
The situation has significant economic ramifications, with protests costing the economy more than $20 mn per day. There are also concerns about potential sporadic incidents of ethnic-based violence, given Kenya's history of tribal alliances influencing politics. Despite this, political analysts believe that the protests are unlikely to escalate into widespread ethnic violence, as Ruto's support base transcends ethnic lines.
Calls for dialogue between Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga have emerged from churches and civil rights groups, urging the government to repeal the tax increases and resolve their differences through peaceful means. The situation remains tense, with further protests planned for the coming days.
On July 7, Daryo mentioned that protests broke out in Kenya due to a new finance law that led to the doubling of the fuel tax and the introduction of a housing levy for employees.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Threads pages to keep up to date on world news.
Comments (0)