Kenya’s independent policing review body, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), has launched an investigation into the killing of two protesters shot by police during mass anti-tax demonstrations in Nairobi and other major cities.
The protests were primarily led by youths from the GenZ generation, who took to the streets to fight for their future. The killings have sparked outrage, with more massive demonstrations planned for this week.
The violent protests erupted last week as parliament voted on a controversial finance bill that seeks to increase taxes on key commodities and services.
The government has faced backlash and protests since Tuesday over the bill and was forced to amend it after dozens of demonstrators rallied outside the country’s parliament building. Police have been breaking up peaceful protests with tear gas and water cannons around Nairobi and other major cities, including the coastal city of Mombasa.
Among the taxes suspended were a 16% value-added tax on bread and a 2.5% tax on motor vehicles, according to a statement from Kenya’s presidency.
Additionally, a proposed increase in mobile money transfer fees was shelved, along with taxes on vegetable oil. Levies on locally produced products such as diapers and sanitary towels have also been dropped. However, these changes have not satisfied protesters, who are calling for the bill to be scrapped entirely.
Mass arrests were recorded in Nairobi earlier on Tuesday, with at least 283 people, including journalists covering the protests, detained by police, according to civil society groups.
Young Kenyans, or GenZs, say they are fighting for their future and are using social media platforms such as TikTok to amplify their message. The app, known for its short, engaging videos, has transformed from an entertainment hub into a platform for social and political activism.
TikTok’s live streaming feature has been pivotal during the protests, as activists use it to provide real-time updates, broadcast live from protest sites, and document any instances of police brutality or overreach.