Crisis in Kenya: Protesters demand justice for 39 dead and President's resignation

Deaths and Injuries

According to Kenya's National Commission on Human Rights, 39 people have been killed and 361 injured during two weeks of protests led by youth. Additionally, there have been 32 forced disappearances and 627 arrests, indicating clear government repression. Most of the deaths occurred in Nairobi, with 17 victims, while the rest were spread across other regions of the country.

Context of the Protests

The protests gained momentum despite President Ruto yielding to popular pressure and abandoning the unpopular Finance Act last week. The law was deemed harmful to the population, especially the most vulnerable, as it increased taxes on basic products.

The protesters, predominantly young people, are demanding significant changes in governance and the economy. These young people are generally more educated than previous generations but face a labor market dominated by the informal sector. Currently, about 80% of Kenyan workers do not earn enough to ensure a decent living for themselves and their families.

Economic and Social Impact

In the outskirts of major cities, many businesses have remained closed, paralyzing the local economy. In Kisumu and other cities, protesters have taken to the streets, halting commerce and services. In Nairobi, the massive presence of security forces remains evident, with frequent clashes along major access routes to the city center.

International Reaction

The international community has been closely monitoring developments in Kenya. Human rights organizations and some foreign governments have urged the Kenyan government to respect the rights of protesters and seek a peaceful solution to the crisis. The African Union and the UN have expressed concern about the escalating violence and called for dialogue between the parties involved.

Future Prospects

The situation in Kenya remains tense, with the possibility of more protests in the coming days. Protesters continue to demand President Ruto's resignation, accusing him of failing to fulfill electoral promises to reduce the cost of living and create jobs. Popular dissatisfaction is reflected in the streets and on social media, where calls for justice and systemic changes are intensifying.

To better understand the context of these protests, it is important to consider the economic challenges Kenya faces. The country has a high youth unemployment rate and an economy struggling to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Inflation has increased the cost of food and other essential goods, worsening the situation for many Kenyan families.

The pressure on President Ruto is immense, and his ability to effectively respond to the demands of the protesters will be crucial for the future stability of the country. Political observers suggest that a conciliatory approach and strengthening democratic institutions could be important steps to avoid worsening the crisis.