Police in Nairobi have fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse demonstrators protesting against President William Ruto’s government.
The protesters, mostly young people, are demanding Ruto’s removal and rejecting a controversial finance bill that would have increased taxes on essential goods.
Despite Ruto’s decision to withdraw the bill on Wednesday, protesters took to the streets again on Thursday, calling for his resignation. The protests, which began last week, have turned violent, resulting in the deaths of over 20 people, according to human rights groups.
In Nairobi, hundreds of protesters marched towards the central business district, but were met with soldiers and police in anti-riot gear. The police blocked access to State House and Parliament, and fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.
Protests also took place in other cities, including Mombasa, Kisumu, Kisii, and Migori. In Homa Bay Town, seven people were shot by police during protests and taken to the hospital.
The Kenya National Commission for Human Rights reported receiving credible reports of live fire being used against protesters, resulting in some deaths. The commission did not specify where the incidents took place.
Protesters are demanding Ruto’s removal, citing corruption and a lack of leadership. “Ruto must go!” chanted the protesters in Nairobi. Young protesters said they would stop demonstrating when the president steps down.
Kasmuel McOure, a Kenyan youth leader, told Al Jazeera that Ruto is running a country with a heavily disgruntled youth population. “Kenya has been declared a military state, and the army has been given free rein,” he said.
The protests have sparked a national conversation about the government’s handling of the economy and its response to public dissent. Despite Ruto’s decision to withdraw the finance bill, protesters say they will continue to demand change until their voices are heard.
