Kenyan Police clash with protesters as anti-government demonstrations continue

Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, witnessed renewed anti-government protests on Thursday, with police using tear gas to disperse demonstrators in the city center. The “Nane Nane” march, named after the August 8 date (Eight Eight in Swahili), follows weeks of similar pro-reform protests that have already led to significant concessions from President William Ruto’s government.

The demonstrations, which began peacefully in June, have turned violent, resulting in over 50 deaths. Police arrested 174 people nationwide, including 126 in Nairobi, and raided the home of opposition financier Jimi Wanjigi.

The protest movement has achieved some victories, including the shelving of new taxes and a cabinet reshuffle. However, activists continue to demand Ruto’s resignation and further reforms to address corruption and improve service delivery.

Ruto has defended the police’s conduct during the protests while promising to investigate alleged abuses. He recently swore in a reconstituted cabinet, which includes opposition members, in an attempt to reflect national unity and address protesters’ demands.

The ongoing demonstrations, largely organized online without official leaders, have presented the biggest crisis of Ruto’s two-year presidency. As tensions persist, the government faces the challenge of balancing democratic rights with maintaining public order and addressing the underlying grievances fueling the protests.