Thousands of young protesters filled Nairobi streets on June 25, marking one year since major demonstrations against tax increases. Police responded with tear gas, stun grenades and water cannons as peaceful marches turned violent. Officers fired live bullets at demonstrators who threw stones back at security forces. Communications officials banned media coverage of the clashes but news outlets ignored the restriction. About 10 people died and 400 suffered injuries during what newspapers called Black Wednesday.
President William Ruto faced similar protests in June 2024 over budget plans demanded by international lenders. His government wanted to raise 2 billion dollars through new taxes on basic goods like bread. Inflation hit 5 percent that year as one third of Kenyans survived on less than 2 dollars daily. Protesters forced Ruto to abandon the tax proposals after 60 people died in violent crackdowns. The demonstrations spread to Uganda and Nigeria as young people challenged their governments.
Recent police actions sparked fresh anger among activists and protesters. Blogger Albert Ojwang died in custody after officers arrested him for criticizing the government online. His death brought demonstrators back to the streets and led to the removal of a top police commander. Protesters chanted for Ruto to leave office as economic problems continued worsening. Kenya remains one of Africa's most heavily indebted nations as young people reject traditional ethnic divisions and organize against government policies.
President William Ruto faced similar protests in June 2024 over budget plans demanded by international lenders. His government wanted to raise 2 billion dollars through new taxes on basic goods like bread. Inflation hit 5 percent that year as one third of Kenyans survived on less than 2 dollars daily. Protesters forced Ruto to abandon the tax proposals after 60 people died in violent crackdowns. The demonstrations spread to Uganda and Nigeria as young people challenged their governments.
Recent police actions sparked fresh anger among activists and protesters. Blogger Albert Ojwang died in custody after officers arrested him for criticizing the government online. His death brought demonstrators back to the streets and led to the removal of a top police commander. Protesters chanted for Ruto to leave office as economic problems continued worsening. Kenya remains one of Africa's most heavily indebted nations as young people reject traditional ethnic divisions and organize against government policies.
