On Thursday, Kenya's streets were ablaze with energy 🔥 as thousands of protesters marched against skyrocketing living costs. The demonstrations turned tragic when 29-year-old Rex Kanyike Masai was fatally shot in Nairobi's bustling central business district. 😢
Citizens are pushing back against a controversial finance bill that proposes higher taxes on a wide range of essentials, sparking fears of increased economic hardship. The protests, which initially began in Nairobi, have now spread like wildfire 🌐 to major towns across the country.
The Kenya Red Cross Society reported 39 injuries from the clashes, with eight critically wounded individuals receiving specialized care at Kenyatta National Hospital. Even the police weren't spared—one officer was hospitalized after a dramatic fall while escaping the crowd. 🚑
Despite heavy police presence, demonstrators are relentless. They managed to hold their ground, though authorities kept them from storming the parliament building where the bill was under debate. The movement, dubbed \"#OccupyParliament\", is gaining momentum on social media, with calls for a national strike on June 25. 🗓️
\"Gen Z are granting all hard-working Kenyans a day off. Parents, keep your children at home in solidarity,\" reads a viral poster circulating online. 🎒
President William Ruto attempted to quell the unrest by dropping some of the proposed taxes, including those on vegetable oil and e-waste products. However, protesters aren't buying it. They believe hidden clauses in the bill will still burden citizens with unfair taxes. 💰
Police Inspector General Japhet Koome stated that while the right to assemble is respected, protesters will not be allowed near critical government infrastructure or disrupt parliamentary proceedings. But with tensions rising, many are wondering how long this standoff can last. ⏳
Stay tuned as Kenya's youth continue to fight for their future, refusing to stay silent in the face of economic challenges. ✊🇰🇪
Reference(s):
1 killed, 39 injured in protests against rising costs in Kenya
cgtn.com
