Fifty-three children were rushed to the hospital in Nairobi after tear gas was forcefully thrown into their classroom during yesterday’s protests.
The incident occurred as demonstrations organized by the opposition took place across the country, driven by mounting frustrations over the rising cost of living.
Tragically, the protests turned deadly, with authorities confirming six fatalities, while human rights bodies claim the number of deaths is even higher at twelve, with numerous others injured.
Dr. Aron Shikuku from Eagle Nursing Home hospital said that all the children affected were treated and subsequently released.
“Many of them had experienced breathing difficulties and shock due to the tear gas exposure.” she said.
The incident highlights the increasingly volatile nature of the protests and the potential dangers faced by innocent bystanders, especially children.
The demonstrations had been banned, but despite the prohibition, Kenyans took to the streets to express their anger towards the escalating cost of living and the recently proposed finance bill, which included tax increases.
Among the contentious hikes were the doubling of fuel taxes and the implementation of a 1.5% levy on all employees to fund new housing projects. The government argued that these measures were necessary to alleviate debts and generate job opportunities for the country’s youth.
However, a court suspended the law due to concerns over its constitutionality.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who lost last year’s election to Mr. Ruto, has been fervently urging the government to reverse the tax increases. He called for civil disobedience last month and labeled those supporting the finance bill as “traitors.” Odinga, the leader of the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition Party, had planned a rally for Wednesday but canceled it in an attempt to prevent further violence.
Japhet Koome, the head of the police force, declared that “all lawful means” would be employed to disperse the protests.
However, human rights groups have accused Kenyan police of using excessive force during anti-government demonstrations last Friday, where several fatalities occurred.
The protests have sparked a divided response from Kenyans, with some supporting the demonstrations as they find the current cost of living unsustainable.
William Musembi, speaking to Reuters, stated, “Kenyans are personally defending themselves, arguing against the imposed taxes. The salary you are paid against what you are spending, there is nothing important you can do for yourself as a human being.”
Read also: Political Showdown: Controversial Finance Bill Vote Final Stage
Meanwhile, others have expressed frustration over incidents of looting that have marred the protests. James Kagimi Wanjema, a supermarket manager, recounted the chaos, saying, “A group of around 400 to 500 people were gathering along the highway, and they came all at once and broke the doors that were already bolted. They were able to access the tills, they looted some cash and merchandise. It’s a little chaotic, very chaotic.”
Subscribe to Switch TV
