Kenya remains gripped by widespread unrest as demonstrations continued unabated on Thursday, despite significant security measures put in place by the government. Protesters thronged the streets of major towns, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kisii, Kakamega, and Migori, voicing their dissatisfaction with President William Ruto’s administration.
The demonstrators, undeterred by military and police barricades, called for the resignation of President Ruto and his top officials, citing a loss of confidence in the current government. The protests, which have led to a tragic increase in the death toll, numerous injuries, and substantial business disruptions, underscore the deepening discontent among various segments of the population.
The latest wave of demonstrations comes on the heels of President Ruto’s decision to return the controversial Finance Bill 2024 to Parliament for further consideration. Despite this gesture, aimed at addressing some of the grievances, the discontented populace took to the streets in larger numbers, indicating that the move did little to quell the rising anger.
In response to the escalating unrest, the government has deployed heavy security in several regions. Military and police forces were seen erecting barricades and attempting to control the swelling crowds. However, these measures have only partially succeeded, with reports of confrontations and clashes between security personnel and protesters emerging from multiple towns.
The protesters, representing a cross-section of Kenyan society, have been vocal about their frustrations. “We have lost faith in this government. They have failed to address our issues, and now we demand their resignation,” said one protester in Nairobi.
Business owners, meanwhile, are reeling from the ongoing disruptions. “The continuous protests and the heavy security presence have severely affected our operations. We are struggling to keep our businesses afloat,” lamented a shop owner in Mombasa.
