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Protests in Kenya turned deadly once again on Wednesday, as at least eight people were killed and hundreds were injured in demonstrations marking the first anniversary of violent protests against a government tax hike proposal. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported eight fatalities from gunshot wounds in various parts of the country, along with over 400 casualties among demonstrators, police officers, and journalists.
The government faced criticism for attempting to censor live television and radio coverage of the protests, seen as a violation of the country’s constitution. President William Ruto’s administration had previously withdrawn the tax increases, which impacted essential goods like food and fuel, following widespread protests last year that resulted in more than 50 deaths and the dismissal of his cabinet.
This year’s protests gained momentum following the recent death of 31-year-old online commentator Albert Ojwang while in police custody. Tens of thousands of young Kenyans gathered in downtown Nairobi for the anniversary demonstrations, prompting clashes with law enforcement using water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to maintain control.
President Ruto urged for calm during the demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of preserving peace in the country. The protest movement, led by younger Kenyans and lacking a structured hierarchy, has posed a challenge for the government to contain.
Political commentator Patrick Gathara noted the growing public demand for change in Kenya, fueled by decades of economic disparity and government corruption. While the government has refrained from implementing new taxes to address the country’s debt crisis, public discontent remains high.
The killing of Albert Ojwang sparked outrage nationwide, leading to the arrest of six individuals, including three police officers, on murder charges. Ojwang was detained for allegedly posting defamatory content about a police official on social media before his untimely death in police custody.
