"At least eight people have died and hundreds injured during protests in Kenya demanding the resignation of President William Ruto. As tensions rise, the government attempts to curb the media coverage of the events while Ruto faces increasing pressure from demonstrators."
"Violent Protests Erupt in Kenya, Resulting in Eight Deaths Amid Calls for Change"
"Violent Protests Erupt in Kenya, Resulting in Eight Deaths Amid Calls for Change"
"Nationwide demonstrations against President Ruto escalate as clashes with police lead to fatalities and injuries."
At least eight individuals have been confirmed dead and over 400 others injured amid escalating nationwide protests in Kenya against the government of President William Ruto. Medical personnel and human rights organizations report that clashes erupted as protesters, thousands strong, took to the streets chanting calls for Ruto's resignation and waving branches symbolizing peaceful opposition.
In a bid to control the situation, police deployed tear gas and water cannons against the crowds, who were attempting to march toward the president's official residence. Although the government attempted to ban live coverage of the protests, a High Court ruling in Nairobi overturned this decree, allowing media to broadcast the ongoing events. Ruto, while attending a burial ceremony in Kilifi, urged demonstrators to prioritize stability over unrest in the country, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in maintaining peace.
As the scene unfolded, police barricaded critical roads leading to significant government buildings, reminiscent of violent anti-government protests from the previous year which resulted in over 60 fatalities. Neither the police nor the government has provided updated casualty figures from the latest protests yet. However, the Kenya Medical Association and other rights groups confirmed that eight protesters were killed during the demonstrations, with 83 of the injured requiring specialized medical treatment.
Amidst the unrest, many protesters voiced their dissatisfaction with the government's performance, particularly in education and general governance. Footage showed clouds of tear gas wafting through Nairobi streets, with protesters desperately seeking cover. Demonstrators left wreaths and messages of mourning at Parliament, reflecting on the prior year's violence, as a poignant reminder of the longstanding discord surrounding governance in Kenya. The protests represent a growing discontent among citizens, signaling an urgent demand for change in the country's leadership and policies.
