KENYA’S government intensified its calls to halt ongoing protests on Thursday, as a court overruled a police ban on demonstrations in Nairobi. The protests, which erupted nearly a month ago over proposed tax hikes, have resulted in at least 50 deaths. Despite President William Ruto withdrawing the tax legislation and dismissing most of his cabinet, the demonstrations continue. Activists demand Ruto’s resignation and call for reforms to address corruption and poor governance.
Police introduced the ban, claiming that criminal gangs had infiltrated the protests. However, the High Court in Nairobi suspended the ban while a case challenging it is heard. Activists had urged demonstrators to gather with camping gear at Uhuru Park, leading to a heavy police presence across the city.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura announced that the protests have cost the country approximately KSh6bn ($46 million). He stated, ‘The president and the government at large have heard you loud and clear and we are ready to act on your concerns.’
The protests, organized mainly online by youth-led groups, represent the biggest crisis in Ruto’s two-year presidency. The government had planned ‘multi-sectoral’ talks to address the protesters’ grievances, but there was no sign of these discussions starting. Leading protest figures rejected the invitation for talks, insisting on immediate action against corruption.
Chief of police Douglas Kanja Kiricho had justified the ban, claiming that criminal groups were planning to exploit the protests for attacks and looting. Nonetheless, the High Court’s suspension of the ban highlighted the legal battle over the right to protest.
Ruto’s proposal to establish a broad-based government was also rejected by the opposition, which called for a constitutional convention instead. The rallies, which began peacefully, have sometimes turned violent, including an incident where protesters briefly stormed parliament on June 25.
The Communications Authority of Kenya has warned the media against inciting violence through their coverage of the protests, urging them to maintain objectivity and balance. Some media outlets have been accused of compromising objectivity and balance in their reporting of crime, security operations, and crisis situations.
As the government navigates its response to the unrest, the country continues to grapple with the protests’ impact on national stability and the economy. The demonstrations have created the biggest crisis of Ruto’s administration, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with governance and public policy. The situation remains tense, with ongoing demonstrations highlighting the public’s demand for significant changes in leadership and governance.
