Police Use Tear Gas As Protests Against President Ruto Persist In Kenya

Police in Kenya used tear gas to disperse protests meant to pressure President William Ruto to resign on Tuesday, July 16. Despite Ruto implementing several changes, the protests have continued.

The demonstrations, organised by activists opposing proposed tax increases, called for a nationwide “shutdown” on Tuesday. These protests have posed the most significant challenge to Ruto’s two-year presidency. Even after Ruto retracted $2.7 billion in tax hikes and made substantial cabinet changes, the protests have persisted, albeit with smaller crowds.

Protesters are demanding Ruto’s resignation, accusing him of mismanagement, corruption, and responsibility for the deaths of protesters in earlier demonstrations. On Tuesday, police used tear gas in Kitengela, near Nairobi, where about 200 protesters burned tires and chanted slogans against Ruto. Similar incidents occurred in Nairobi’s city center and Mombasa, where protesters also encountered tear gas.

Although Ruto announced talks to address the protesters’ concerns, these discussions have yet to commence. Many activists have refused to engage, insisting on immediate action regarding corruption and other issues.

Ruto’s spokesperson did not provide any comments on the matter.

Kenya is grappling with debt, spending over 30% of its revenue on interest payments. Ruto is under pressure from lenders to reduce deficits while dealing with a populace burdened by high living costs. The initially peaceful protests have turned violent, with rights groups reporting more than 40 deaths.

On Monday, Ruto accused the Ford Foundation of financing the protests but did not offer any evidence. The Ford Foundation denied these accusations, stating it does not fund protests and adheres to a non-partisan stance.

Nancy Mbamalu 

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