The death toll in Kenya has risen to 13 following violent anti-tax hike protests that saw demonstrators clash with police and storm the parliament, leaving parts of the building ablaze. The protests, primarily led by youth against proposed tax increases, started peacefully but escalated dramatically on Tuesday afternoon.
According to Simon Kigondu of the Kenya Medical Association, at least 13 people have been confirmed dead, with many more injured. The scenes of chaos and destruction have shocked the nation, prompting President William Ruto's government to deploy the military alongside police forces to restore order.
The unrest, which saw police firing live rounds and using tear gas against protesters, has drawn international concern. The White House and several Western nations have appealed for calm, condemning the violent scenes outside the Kenyan Parliament. UN Chief Antonio Guterres and AU Commission Head Moussa Faki Mahamat have also expressed deep concern over the situation.
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The protests, fueled by long-standing grievances over the high cost of living exacerbated by proposed tax hikes, reflect widespread public frustration. Despite some concessions by the government on the tax proposals, tensions remain high as the country grapples with economic challenges and a significant budget shortfall.
As the situation unfolds, Kenya faces a critical moment, grappling with both economic pressures and widespread public discontent that has spilled over into violent unrest on the streets of Nairobi and other cities.
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