Chaos in Kitengela: One Dead as Anti-Government Protests Turn Deadly

Peaceful protests in Kitengela, Kajiado County, escalated into chaos, leaving one person dead as calls for President William Ruto's resignation intensified. The demonstration, which began with a calm march through Kitengela town, turned violent when police officers attempted to disperse the crowd with teargas.

Police trying to contain protestors in Kitengela. 16th June 2024

The situation quickly spiraled out of control, leading to running battles between protestors and anti-riot officers who deployed water cannons. Overwhelmed by the growing crowd, the police called in General Service Unit (GSU) officers for reinforcement.

Graphic videos circulating online showed demonstrators desperately carrying a protestor who had been shot in the head to a different location. This tragic incident adds to the grim toll of the ongoing protests, with the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reporting over 51 deaths, 413 injuries, and 59 abductions since the unrest began.

Tuesday saw a nationwide surge in protests, with demonstrations erupting in over 23 counties, including Nairobi, Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Nyeri, Makueni, Machakos, Laikipia, Homa Bay, Kilifi, and Turkana. Other affected counties were Kajiado, Baringo, Kericho, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kakamega, Bungoma, and Trans Nzoia.

In Nairobi, the situation was equally tense as anti-riot officers lobbed teargas at peaceful protestors brandishing Kenyan flags and placards. Businesses across Central Business Districts (CBD) remained shuttered, reflecting the widespread disruption caused by the protests.

"No dialogue, just actions," chanted the protestors, their voices echoing the deep frustration and discontent with the current administration. The calls for President Ruto's resignation are growing louder as the country grapples with increasing instability and violence.