Renewed Protests in Kenya Turn Deadly Amidst Economic Crisis

At least one person has died as anti-government protests continue in Kenya. Demonstrators demand President William Ruto's resignation and systemic reforms to address corruption and poor governance, despite the withdrawal of controversial tax hikes. Protests have led to about 50 deaths and numerous injuries.

At least one person was killed during renewed anti-government protests in Kenya on Tuesday, a Reuters reporter confirmed, as police engaged in violent clashes with demonstrators demanding the resignation of President William Ruto. The protests erupted a month ago over proposed tax hikes, which Ruto has since withdrawn along with dismissing most of his cabinet. Despite these moves, activists are calling for Ruto's resignation and comprehensive reforms to tackle corruption and poor governance.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), a government-funded body, estimates that about 50 people have died as a result of the protests to date. In Kitengela, near Nairobi, police fired on protesters who were throwing rocks, burning tyres, and chanting 'Ruto must go,' according to a Reuters reporter who witnessed a protester's body with a head wound.

Tuesday's protests were among the largest since the withdrawal of the tax increases on June 26. In Nairobi, riot police used tear gas on several dozen protesters in the city center. Demonstrators in Mombasa waved palm fronds during their march, with local television footage showing litter burning in the streets. The protests have put Ruto in the toughest spot since taking office two years ago, with Kenya's debt crisis exacerbating the public's frustrations.