Nairobi, Kenya – Violence erupted once more in Kenya on Tuesday as anti-government protests flared up, claiming at least one life, a Reuters witness reported. The demonstrations, which have been ongoing for a month, escalated despite President William Ruto’s recent concessions, including the withdrawal of controversial tax hikes and a cabinet reshuffle.
Protesters, primarily youth, are demanding Ruto’s resignation and sweeping reforms to address corruption and poor governance. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported a grim toll of at least 50 fatalities since the protests began.
Tensions reached a boiling point in Kitengela, a town outside Nairobi, where police clashed with protesters who hurled rocks. Graphic footage captured by Reuters showed one demonstrator lifeless on the ground, bleeding from a head wound. Despite the severity of the situation, the national police spokesperson declined to comment.
Tuesday’s demonstrations appeared to be among the most widespread since Ruto’s tax retreat on June 26. Reports indicated protests in over half of Kenya’s counties. In Nairobi, riot police dispersed demonstrators with tear gas, while in Mombasa, protesters marched and burned tires.
The protests have plunged Kenya into its most significant crisis under Ruto’s two-year presidency. The country’s economic woes, exacerbated by a crippling debt burden, have created a complex landscape for the president. As he navigates pressure from both lenders and a frustrated public, protesters have accused him of prioritizing international creditors over citizens.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has become a focal point of anger, with protesters blaming the institution for the proposed tax increases. The IMF, however, maintains its focus is on supporting Kenya’s economic recovery and improving citizens’ lives.
Ruto’s office has initiated talks to address protesters’ concerns, but key activists have dismissed the effort as insufficient, demanding immediate action against corruption.
The demonstrations, initially peaceful, have descended into chaos. Besides the fatalities, hundreds have been injured, detained, and are missing, according to the KNCHR. While Ruto has promised investigations into alleged police misconduct, he has defended the security forces and accused unnamed entities of orchestrating violence.
The Ford Foundation, an American philanthropic organization, has vehemently denied government accusations of funding the protests.
