This week, thousands of Kenyans took to the streets in major cities and towns across the country to protest against the rising costs of living and the proposed tax hikes in the 2024 finance bill. The situation escalated dramatically on Wednesday, June 24th, 2024, when protestors stormed the parliament building. In response, police fired live ammunition and teargas to disperse the crowds. According to the Kenya Medical Association, at least thirteen people have been reported dead and thirty-one wounded as a result of the clashes.
Human Rights defenders have expressed dismay and regret at the injuries and loss of life during the protests. The Resurgence Network for Human Rights (RNHR) has issued a statement, joining other Human Rights Activists in calling for restraint from both sides.
RNHR Statement:
The RNHR emphasizes that under the constitution of Kenya, it is the right of every Kenyan to protest and the duty of the leaders to listen. However, the current situation has seen the misuse of power and authority, turning peaceful demonstrations into violent clashes resulting in deaths and major injuries.
Current Situation:
Rising Tensions: The protests, initially sparked by economic grievances, have grown in intensity and scope, with demonstrators also voicing broader discontent with government policies and governance.
Government Response: The government has deployed additional security forces to key locations, including the parliament and other governmental buildings, in an attempt to control the situation.
Public Reaction: The public remains deeply divided. While some support the government’s tough stance on the protests, others criticize the excessive use of force and demand accountability for the deaths and injuries.
International Concern: The international community, including various human rights organizations and foreign governments, has expressed concern over the situation. Calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution are growing louder.
RNHR’s Call to Action:
RNHR calls upon the government of Kenya to cease fire on civilians and adopt a peaceful approach in handling the matter. It is our humble appeal that the state and all relevant parties stop the use of force on protestors and desist from causing more fatalities in the course of the protests. The organization stresses the importance of respecting the constitutional rights of the people to peacefully protest and urges the government to engage in constructive dialogue to address the underlying issues.
Resurgence Network for Human Rights (RNHR) Chairman Clinton Mirrors A. stated:
“Human rights are the foundation of justice and equality. When we stand together to protect and promote these rights, we pave the way for a world where every individual can live with dignity and freedom. Let us commit to defending the rights of all, ensuring that no voice goes unheard and no injustice goes unchallenged.”