In Kenya, peaceful marches led by Gen-Z youth against tax hikes turned violent, resulting in dozens of deaths. President William Ruto faces challenges as the movement escalates.
The protests, triggered by proposed tax increases, quickly escalated into chaos with clashes between protesters and police, leading to significant casualties. Ruto, initially taken aback by the unrest, pulled the finance bill and called for dialogue but faced criticism for labeling protesters as “criminals.”
Despite attempts to de-escalate, the protests continue, with calls for Ruto’s resignation gaining momentum. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing clashes and looting in various cities.
Analysts suggest Ruto could mitigate the crisis through a Cabinet reshuffle and tax cuts. However, the deep-rooted issues driving the protests, including corruption and police brutality, pose significant challenges for the government.
As the movement evolves, Ruto’s future remains uncertain, with the upcoming rallies on Thursday set to determine the trajectory of the protests and their impact on Kenya’s political landscape.