The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has announced that at least 39 people have been killed in recent anti-government protests in Kenya, with 361 injured and 627 arrested. The protests were sparked by unpopular tax increases that have now been withdrawn. The mostly peaceful demonstrations turned violent last Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of protesters and destruction of government buildings. President William Ruto, who took office in 2022, has faced criticism for the government’s response to the protests, with calls for his resignation and new protests planned for this week.
Ruto had previously announced that he would not sign the bill containing the tax hikes, but the government is facing a budget shortfall and pressure from international lenders to implement fiscal reforms. The International Monetary Fund has urged Kenya to address its public debt, which is equivalent to 70% of the country’s GDP. Ruto’s administration has already rolled back some tax measures in response to the protests, but analysts believe this has weakened his position domestically.
Former chief justice of Kenya, Willy Mutunga, has criticized Ruto’s administration for prioritizing foreign interests over those of the Kenyan people. He believes that addressing the material interests of the youth is crucial to bridging the divide between the government and protesters. Despite the government’s concessions on the tax laws, activists are continuing to call for Ruto’s resignation and economic reforms. The situation remains tense as Kenya grapples with the aftermath of the protests and the government’s response.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com