In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Protests in Kenya, initially against the Finance Bill 2024, have escalated into widespread demonstrations against President Ruto’s administration and the killing of protestors during previous unrests.
- Despite withdrawing the Finance Bill, tensions remain high with ongoing clashes in major cities, reflecting deep frustrations over economic hardships and governance issues.
The demonstrations, initially sparked by opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, have now evolved into widespread protests against President William Ruto’s administration and the recent killings of demonstrators during previous unrests.
Despite President Ruto’s attempt to calm the situation by withdrawing the contentious Finance Bill and extending an olive branch, many protestors remain agitated.
Youth activists have primarily led the demonstrations, taking to the streets to voice their grievances against the government’s policies and the harsh measures taken by security forces during earlier protests.
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In Nairobi, the central business district has witnessed significant clashes, with police resorting to tear gas and live ammunition to disperse the crowds.
Police lob teargas to disperse crowd that had started gathering at Archives, Nairobi CBD
— Pulse Kenya (@PulseLiveKenya) July 2, 2024
📽️:Courtesy#PulseNews pic.twitter.com/7249vJDcqo
To contain the situation, traffic officers have barricaded roads leading to the Nairobi CBD.
Protesters have also been active in Mombasa, blocking major roads and setting bonfires, which has led to severe disruptions in transport.
Idadi kubwa ya watu yajitokeza kuandamana Mombasa pic.twitter.com/VIZ4gdJcIC
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) July 2, 2024
Kisii has seen similar unrest, with demonstrators barricading roads and engaging in confrontations with anti-riot police.
Despite heightened security measures across the country, the protesters continue to demand accountability and justice for the deaths of their fellow citizens.
As tensions rise, concerns grow about the potential for further violence and disruptions in the coming days.
The international community has also expressed concern, with several foreign embassies advising their nationals to steer clear of the demonstrations.
The ongoing protests underscore the deep-seated frustrations among Kenyans over economic hardships and governance issues, reflecting a growing demand for significant political and social change.