Protesters in Kenya have intensified their anti-government demonstrations, now in their sixth week, with a vow to achieve a 'total shutdown.' The unrest has resulted in at least 50 deaths and over 400 injuries, as reported by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
Social media posts circulating widely have called on protesters to block all routes leading to Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, aiming to bring operations to a standstill.
Authorities have responded by increasing security at the airport and warning against trespassing on protected areas, emphasizing that such actions are punishable by law. Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja urged demonstrators to adhere to legal provisions and avoid interference with restricted zones.
The protests initially erupted in response to a contentious finance bill proposing significant tax hikes on essential goods. Following the bill's withdrawal by President William Ruto, the focus of the demonstrations shifted towards questioning his legitimacy, government corruption, and police brutality.
President Ruto recently reappointed six ministers after dismissing the entire cabinet under public pressure, sparking renewed public outrage over their reinstatement. The nominees await parliamentary approval, which is likely given Ruto's party's majority.
In a statement on Sunday, President Ruto expressed frustration with the ongoing protests, emphasizing the need to safeguard the nation's stability and security. He denounced the violence and chaos, affirming the government's commitment to upholding peace and order.
The youth-led protests, organized primarily through social media platforms like TikTok and X, have refrained from identifying a specific leader, a move that has drawn criticism from Ruto. The president called for dialogue and condemned the protesters' anonymity, urging for a more transparent and accountable approach to their grievances.
The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm in their positions, with the government emphasizing law and order while protesters demand accountability and change.
