In recent days, frustration and unrest have surged in Kenya, culminating in violent confrontations between protestors and police forces. What started as simmering discontent toward President William Ruto’s government has erupted into chaos, raising profound questions about democracy and governance in the nation.
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According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, at least 31 lives have been lost and over 100 individuals wounded during protests that swept through the country on Monday. It’s a stark reminder of a simmering anger that seems to boil over again and again. The same organization reported 532 arrests and two troubling cases of forced disappearances, painting a grim picture of civil unrest.
Images of police wielding live ammunition, tear gas, and water cannons have flooded news outlets: officers on deserted overpasses raining down tear gas onto demonstrators below, while some protestors, undeterred, hurled stones in defiance. This was not just any day—these demonstrations coincided with Saba Saba Day, a date etched in the annals of Kenya’s history. Celebrating the beginning of the multiparty democracy movement in 1990, “Saba Saba” translates to “Seven Seven,” honoring the initial pro-democracy rallies that took place in the capital.
On this significant anniversary, the streets of Nairobi were blocked off by heavily armed police officers, creating an eerie calm in an otherwise bustling area. The normally crowded thoroughfares stood deserted, except for a determined few who were resolute in their mission. Armed men, some in civilian clothes, were seen patrolling in police vehicles—a daunting sight that raises alarming questions about safety and governance.
Among the voices raised in protest was Emmanuel Maranga, a 45-year-old from Kikuyu. “We can use this Saba Saba to drive reform in this country,” he asserted, emphasizing the urgency of the moment for future generations. “I’m here for the youngsters. We have to fight for what our parents started.” Listening to him speak, one can’t help but ponder: How much are we willing to risk for the ideal of democracy?
Other demonstrators echoed sentiments of disillusionment, particularly in light of recent police violence that has gone unchecked. Dominic Mbuthia, 32, sharply criticized Ruto’s leadership, stating, “He’s not democratic. He doesn’t want to listen to the people. He is a dictator.” Just how can a government that turns a deaf ear to its citizens continue to thrive?
Within the capital’s business district, shops stood shuttered as chaos unfolded outside. Many men, ostensibly private security, roamed the streets armed with thick wooden sticks, adding to the atmosphere of fear. Just weeks ago, similar protests resulted in the deaths of at least 16 individuals. Anger has been simmering for a while now, particularly over a contentious tax plan that led to widespread demonstrations. The recent death of a blogger in police custody only intensified the flames of discontent. What price do we pay for voicing our opinions in an increasingly hostile environment?
Charles Munyao, a local business owner, recounted an unfortunate experience during the protests on June 25. “Goons, not protesters, ruined my inventory,” he lamented, frustrated by the lack of police support to recover stolen items. “If security had been well coordinated, we would not have lost our shops.” His story exemplifies the collateral damage often experienced by innocent bystanders in times of upheaval. It begs the question: How do we protect the voices of dissent without sacrificing the livelihoods of many?
The United Nations has weighed in on the unfolding crisis, condemning the violence while emphasizing the importance of addressing the legitimate grievances fueling these protests. “It is essential that legitimate grievances at the root of these protests are addressed,” urged Ravina Shamdasani, a spokeswoman for the U.N. high commissioner for human rights. But what does addressing grievances truly mean in a context fraught with distrust?
After previous protests, there were reports of abductions and tortures, particularly targeting activists and healthcare workers—an unsettling pattern that brings back haunting memories of oppressive regimes. While the police have denied any targeting of protestors, Mr. Ruto claims that abducted individuals have been returned to their families. But how can trust be restored when there are so many lingering doubts?
The air is thick with tension, both palpable and persistent. As Kenyans navigate this complex landscape of discontent and urgency for change, one must hope dialogue will replace confrontation, and that leaders will recognize the voices of their citizens as instrumental, not adversarial. After all, in a democracy, listening is perhaps the most vital form of leadership.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
