Fatalities Reported as Kenyan Anti-Government Protests Escalate

Kenyan protests against President William Ruto have continued, with at least one person killed in the latest clashes. The protests, which began a month ago against proposed tax hikes, have continued even after Ruto withdrew the legislation and fired almost all of his cabinet.

Activists demand Ruto’s resignation and systemic changes to clean up corruption and poor governance. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reports that at least 50 people have been killed in the protests to date. The protests have created the biggest crisis of Ruto’s two years in power, as Kenya spends over 30% of its revenues just paying interest bills on its debt.

Ruto’s office had announced “multi-sectoral” talks to address grievances raised by the protesters, but there was no sign they had begun. Most leading activists have rejected the invitation, calling for immediate action on issues like corruption.

In addition to the 50 deaths, 59 people have been abducted or are missing in connection with the protests. Ruto has promised to investigate accusations of abuse but has broadly defended the conduct of the police.