At least 11 people were killed and dozens injured in Kenya on Monday as anti-government protests marking the historic “Saba Saba” Day erupted into violence across 17 counties.
The demonstrations,fueled by anger over alleged government corruption,rising living costs,and police brutality,saw widespread clashes between protesters and heavily deployed security forces. Police fired tear gas and live rounds into crowds while protesters lit bonfires and hurled stones. Razor wire barricades were set up around key government buildings in Nairobi,and access to the capital was blocked to most civilians. Over 560 people were arrested nationwide,with security officers accused of using excessive force and patrolling in unmarked vehicles,violating court orders.
7 July,or Saba Saba — “Seven Seven” in Swahili — commemorates the 1990 pro-democracy protests that paved the way for Kenya’s multiparty system. This year,it became a rallying point for frustrated youth and opposition activists demanding President William Ruto’s resignation. “They fire live rounds everywhere. They are not even targeting anyone,then it lands to whoever it will land,” said one Nairobi resident. “We are not animals,we are human beings like them … yet,they are the ones killing us.” Despite government assurances that public services would operate normally,businesses remained shuttered and streets largely deserted. Analysts warn that attempts to criminalize protests risk deepening public resentment and portraying the state as “retrogressive and desperate.
United News - unews.co.za