At least one person was killed in fresh anti-government protests across Kenya on Tuesday, as police clashed with demonstrators demanding President William Ruto’s resignation.
The protests, which began a month ago against proposed tax hikes, have continued despite Ruto withdrawing the legislation and firing his cabinet.
Activists are demanding systemic changes to address corruption and poor governance, with at least 50 people killed in the protests so far, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
In Kitengela, police fired teargas and live bullets at protesters, killing one and injuring others. A Reuters reporter saw the body of the deceased protester with a head wound. In Nakuru, three people, including a journalist, were shot by police. Wanjeri wa Kariuki, a journalist, was shot three times in the thigh and taken to a private hospital for treatment.
The interior ministry said security agencies were instructed to exercise restraint, but witnesses alleged police brutality. The protests, which appeared to be some of the biggest since Ruto withdrew the tax increases, saw demonstrators burn tyres, wave Kenyan flags, and chant “Ruto must go!”
As the situation remains tense, Kenyans are calling for an end to corruption and poor governance. The government’s response to the protests has been criticized, with many demanding accountability for the killings and injuries.
