Kenya marks anniversary of deadly Tax Bill protests with fresh unrest. Image: The Guardian.
(The Post News)– Kenya’s national rights watchdog reported eight deaths and over 400 injuries during anti-government protests on Wednesday.
The protests marked the anniversary of deadly demonstrations against a tax bill last year, which resulted in over 60 deaths. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights documented cases of excessive force by police, including the use of rubber bullets and live ammunition.
Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets, prompting police to use tear gas and water cannons to disperse them. The protests were largely peaceful, but some areas saw clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with protesters chanting slogans and police responding with force.
Kenyatta National Hospital received dozens of wounded people, with 107 admitted, mostly with gunshot injuries. Medical staff worked tirelessly to treat the injured, with many patients requiring urgent care. Meanwhile, a Kenya Power security guard was shot dead while patrolling the company’s headquarters in Nairobi, highlighting the risks faced by security personnel during the protests.
Large crowds gathered near the president’s official residence, State House, prompting authorities to take action. Two major broadcasters were taken off the air for defying an order to stop live coverage, but a court later suspended the order, allowing them to resume broadcasting. The move was seen as a victory for press freedom, with many Kenyans relying on live coverage to stay informed about the protests.
Protesters clashed with police, resulting in violence and property damage. Court facilities were torched in Kikuyu town, and isolated clashes were reported in other areas, including Mombasa and Kisii. The protests were marked by widespread anger and frustration, with many Kenyans demanding change and accountability from their government.
The protests are driven by ongoing anger over police brutality and unexplained disappearances. The death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody sparked fresh demonstrations, with protesters demanding justice for those who died in last year’s demonstrations and calling for an end to police violence. Many Kenyans are still mourning the loss of loved ones, and the protests serve as a reminder of the need for reform and accountability.
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