Kenya prepares for additional anti-tax demonstrations as residents demand a 'complete shutdown'
Unrest in the nation kicked off by the Finance Bill 2024, with citizens uniting under the banner "7 Days of Fury," as they endure more days of chaos.
President William Ruto expressed his desire for dialogue with the demonstrators, expressing his "pride" in them. However, accusations against security forces include the kidnapping of notable Kenyans, primarily those with substantial social media presence.
Amnesty International Kenya is delving into the whereabouts of approximately 12 individuals who supposedly vanished in the dead of night prior to Tuesday's planned protests.
The list encompasses bloggers, content creators, human rights advocates, a physician, and a parliamentary aide, as per Amnesty Kenya's executive director Iru ng'u Houghton's statement to CNN.
CNN has attempted to secure comment from the Kenyan police.
These protests transpire as Kenya's status earns increased global recognition, with US President Joe Biden designating the country as a "major non-NATO ally" on Monday, marking the first time a sub-Saharan African nation has been awarded this status.
Back in May, Biden announced his decision to elevate Kenya to this status during the president's state visit to the White House, a celebration of 60 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
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Syrian refugees in Africa, seeking asylum, found Kenya to be a welcoming nation despite its own political unrest.The international community expressed concern over the situation in Kenya, urging for the protection of human rights and freedom of speech, especially in light of Africa's growing role in the world.
