Kenyan police fired tear gas at protesters in Nairobi on Thursday, as demonstrations against government policies continued despite President William Ruto’s recent concessions.
The protests, which have spread to several towns across the country, come in the wake of earlier violent demonstrations that reportedly claimed over 20 lives.
Security forces, including the military, have been heavily deployed in the capital, with roads blocked around key buildings. The turnout in Nairobi was notably lower than in previous protests, where demonstrators had stormed parliament.
The unrest stems from widespread discontent over proposed tax hikes in a finance bill, which President Ruto agreed to withdraw following public pressure. However, protesters are now demanding the president’s resignation, citing unfulfilled campaign promises to champion the interests of ordinary citizens.
Auma Obama, half-sister of former US President Barack Obama, told the BBC that young people were returning to the streets because “they still want their voices heard.” She emphasized that the grievances extend beyond the finance bill, calling for dialogue to prevent further bloodshed.
The protests have not been without controversy. State agents have been accused of abducting hundreds of people linked to the demonstrations. The state-funded Kenya National Commission reported helping secure the release of over 300 “illegally detained” individuals.
While Nairobi saw reduced participation, other towns experienced significant unrest. In Mombasa, Kenya’s second-largest city, large crowds chanted “Ruto must go,” with some incidents of looting and stone-throwing reported. Clashes also occurred in Migori and Kisumu in western Kenya.
President Ruto has defended his government’s actions, stating that tough choices were necessary to stabilize the economy and ease Kenya out of its debt trap. He now plans to introduce a new program of public austerity, including cuts to spending in his office.
As the situation remains tense, many Kenyans and international observers are calling for peaceful dialogue to address the underlying issues fueling the protests.
