Three Killed During Anti-Government Protests in Kenya

By Samuel Ouma

The number of people who have died as a result of anti-government protests in Kenya has hit 53.

This is after 3 police officers shot three more people on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, following a massive protest that rocked the East African nation.

One of the victims was shot dead in Kitengela, Kajiado County, south of Nairobi. The demonstrations turned violent after police lobbed tear gas canisters at the peaceful protesters.

The second deceased was killed in the Nairobi CBD after he was caught by a bullet which police officers were firing at the young protesters.

Several protesters were injured, and they are receiving treatment in various hospitals across the country.

The protests were reported in several areas across the country with the angry protesters calling President William Ruto to vacate the office.

They accused President Ruto of incompetency and aiding corruption, among other issues.

Some areas marred with such protests are Nairobi, Kibwezi, Nakuru, Machakos, Kisumu, Nyamira, Kisii, Kakamega, and others.

In Nakuru, northwest of Nairobi, security officers were reported to have stormed a church to flush out protesters who ran into the building to seek refuge.

The officers reportedly hurled tear gas and opened fire at the protesters with live bullets.

In the same town, the officers also shot and injured a journalist who was covering the protests.

Catherine Wanjeri of Kameme TV was shot thrice in the thigh, an action that elicited public uproar with various media associations calling for the persecution of the protesters.

Even though Ruto had announced that he was ready to hold dialogue with the disgruntled youths, however, Gen Z have maintained that they do not need dialogue, only action that is resigning.