Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets in major cities, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Nyahururu, to mark the one-year anniversary of deadly anti-tax protests that claimed 60 lives. The demonstrations, led mainly by young people, were sparked by grievances over police brutality, corruption, and governance issues.
*Casualties and Injuries*
According to Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, at least 16 people were killed and over 400 injured in the protests. The casualties included people hit by live fire, wounded by rubber bullets, or beaten by police. Many were treated for gunshot wounds, and some protesters were injured during clashes with police ¹.
*Police Response*
The police responded to the protests with force, deploying tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. Government buildings were barricaded with razor wire, and access to the central business district was restricted. The government ordered TV and radio stations to halt live coverage of the protests ¹ ².
*Government Reaction*
The Kenyan government has condemned the protests, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and dialogue to resolve social grievances. President William Ruto's administration has reiterated its commitment to upholding law and order ³.
*International Response*
The embassies of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other Western nations released a joint statement urging all involved to "facilitate peaceful demonstrations and to refrain from violence". They also expressed concern over the use of plain-clothed officers in unmarked vehicles, which erodes public trust ¹.
*Protesters' Demands*
The protesters are calling for accountability and change, expressing frustration over issues including governance, corruption, and police misconduct. Many waved Kenyan flags and placards with pictures of demonstrators killed last year, chanting "Ruto must go" ⁴ ².
*Prayers for Kenya*
As the situation unfolds, citizens and international observers alike are calling for calm and restraint. Our thoughts are with the people of Kenya, and we pray for their safety and well-being during this challenging time ¹.
