Again, chaos envelopes Kenya as Pro- and Anti-Government protesters clash

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, was thrown into turmoil on Wednesday as pro- and anti-government protesters engaged in violent clashes, resulting in the burning of a motorcycle and the deployment of tear gas by police.

The chaos marked the fifth week of anti-government protests, which began as a response to a controversial finance bill proposing new taxes.

The pro-government group, riding motorcycles, confronted anti-government demonstrators in the suburb of Imara Daima, leading to the torching of a motorcycle belonging to a pro-government supporter.

Meanwhile, anti-government protesters lit bonfires along the highway to Kenya’s main airport, prompting airport officials to advise travelers to arrive early due to extensive security checks.

Police responded to the protests by hurling tear gas cannisters at demonstrators who had blocked a major road leading to the airport.

The clashes have resulted in at least 50 deaths and 413 injuries since June 18, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.

The protests, initially sparked by opposition to the finance bill, have evolved into demands for President William Ruto’s resignation.

Despite Ruto’s decision not to sign the bill and his dismissal of several Cabinet ministers, protesters remain unsatisfied.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has expressed support for the protesters, presenting a list of demands that must be met by the government before dialogue can commence.

These demands include compensation for families of killed protesters and the dropping of charges against those arrested during protests.

The Kenyan constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest, but police have been accused of violence toward demonstrators in the past.

The recent resignation of Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and the appointment of acting police head Douglas Kanja have done little to alleviate tensions.

Kanja reiterated that the country’s main airport is a “protected area” and “out of bounds to unauthorized persons,” warning that anyone breaking the law will be dealt with swiftly and decisively.

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