In an incident that has sparked howls online, a Kenyan protester was captured taking and smoking teargas recently.
Timeline Of The Violent Protests In Kenya
Kenya has witnessed intense protests since last week over a controversial new finance bill introducing unpopular tax proposals. The demonstrations escalated into clashes between police and protesters, resulting in fatalities and chaos. Authorities reported that at least 22 people were killed in protests on 26 June, and at least 200 were wounded.
The finance bill aimed to implement tax hikes, sparking widespread discontent among citizens. Young people organised themselves on social media and took to the streets to express disgruntlement over the bill.
This week, protesters in Nairobi breached the parliament building, setting part of it on fire. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported at least 22 deaths during the clashes. Gunshots and tear gas filled the streets of Nairobi as anger surged over the new measures.
Initially, Kenyan President William Ruto blamed the violence on “criminals” who he believed had “hijacked” the protests. He said the Government would deal with the unruly elements.
As more blood spilt in the streets, Ruto conceded and withdrew the Finance Bill.
“I concede, and therefore, I will not sign the 2024 finance bill, and it shall subsequently be withdrawn. The people have spoken,” he announced.
There is increased security presence in parts of Nairobi ahead of calls for more protests. Many Kenyans on social media have expressed scepticism over Ruto’s concession, calling it a “PR” move. Protesters now want Ruto to resign, pledging to “occupy State House”.
ALSO READ: “Pray For Kenya”: Zimbabwean Prophet Mellontik Orasi Issues Warning of Impending Doom, Calls for Prayers as Kenyans Take to the Streets to Protest
Kenyan Protester Grabs A Canister And Smokes Teargas
One protester has caused a rave on social media for an unusual stunt. Kenyans have been reacting spectacularly to teargas canisters, as some hit them back at the police with tennis rackets.
One protester took the canister as it was simmering and started smoking the teargas it emitted. He inhaled the smoke deeply and passed it out from the nose and mouth. Done, he gave a fellow protester to smoke the teargas.
Watch the drama below.
A Kenyan protester smoked teargas from a canister thrown at him by the Anti-Riot police officers in the #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests, he even shared it with another protester because sharing is caring. pic.twitter.com/CHMtCXPa2c
— African Hub (@AfricanHub_) June 26, 2024
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