Kenyan Protests: Tensions Rise as Activists Detained

Kenyan police detained several people attempting to present a petition to the president's office to honor those killed during anti-government protests. Among the detained was Boniface Mwangi, a prominent activist. These protests began in opposition to proposed tax increases by President William Ruto and have continued despite the withdrawal of the legislation.

Kenyan authorities detained several individuals on Thursday who attempted to submit a petition to the president's office and honor those killed amid anti-government protests, according to protest organizers. Notably, among the detained was prominent activist Boniface Mwangi.

Activists posted videos on social media just before the detentions, showing marchers carrying red-stained white crosses and chanting: 'We are peaceful!' The demonstrators had planned to petition the government for justice for those who lost their lives in the protests.

Protests erupted in mid-June over tax increases proposed by President William Ruto. Since then, over 50 people have died, and numerous others have been detained or reported missing. Demonstrators continue to demand Ruto's resignation and condemn systemic corruption, despite the president's promise to investigate alleged police abuses and his appointment of a new police chief, Douglas Kanja.