Sixteen individuals lost their lives during nationwide anti-government protests in Kenya on Wednesday, with Amnesty Kenya’s director reporting that most of the fatalities were due to police action. This tragic event coincided with the anniversary of last year’s protests against a controversial tax bill, which had resulted in over 60 deaths.
Local media and eyewitness reports indicated that thousands of Kenyans took to the streets in the capital, Nairobi, where police responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. By 8:30 AM, Amnesty Kenya confirmed 16 deaths, with Irungu Houghton, the organization’s executive director, asserting that many of these individuals were shot, with five confirmed dead from gunshot wounds.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported at least eight deaths attributed to gunfire across the nation and highlighted that there were over 400 casualties, which included protesters, police officers, and journalists. These incidents reflect a broader pattern of police violence that has raised concerns among human rights organizations.
In a related update, the KNCHR emphasized that excessive force was employed during the protests, with reports of injuries due to rubber bullets and water cannons. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority confirmed the arrest of at least 61 individuals amid the unrest.
In a separate report from Kenyatta National Hospital, an official stated that 107 people were admitted, primarily for gunshot wounds. Notably, one security guard for Kenya Power was killed while monitoring the company’s headquarters during the protests.
Earlier in the day, large crowds marched toward State House, the president’s residence, leading to escalating tensions. Two major news channels were temporarily taken off the air after defying a government order against live coverage, though they resumed broadcasting later after a court issued a suspension on the order.
This recent upheaval is reminiscent of previous protests in Kenya, where police violence has sparked public outrage and led to calls for accountability. Analysts hope that the sustained activism will galvanize reforms in policing practices, fostering a future where the rights and safety of citizens are prioritized.
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