In Kenya, antigovernment protesters took to the streets on Tuesday demanding the resignation of President William Ruto, leading to clashes with the police. The demonstrations, which began in mid-June due to nationwide anger over planned tax hikes, have continued to escalate in intensity. Police responded with tear gas and water cannon, resulting in a tense showdown between protesters and law enforcement.

Reports from Nairobi indicate that tear gas was fired throughout the day, leaving the streets littered with empty canisters. The protests, spanning from Nairobi to the coastal town of Mombasa, witnessed some demonstrators calling for President Ruto's departure, while many others emphasized the need for comprehensive reforms in the country.

Notably, the town of Kitengala saw around 200 protesters burning tires and chanting slogans demanding Ruto's resignation. Tragically, according to a witness quoted by Reuters news agency, one person lost their life during the clashes. Additionally, footage from Kenyan media revealed more protesters in Mombasa brandishing palm fronds as they marched through the city.

The protests have taken a toll on journalists as well. In Nakuru, north-west of Nairobi, Mediamax journalist Catherine Kariuki was admitted to the hospital after being shot, allegedly by a rogue police officer. Kenya Union of Journalists called for a swift investigation into the incident by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.

These demonstrations have been fueled by frustrations over stagnant wages and perceived escalating corruption. The government's proposed tax plan acted as a catalyst for the protests. President Ruto attempted to appease the discontent by scrapping the tax increase and dismissing most of his cabinet while also inviting activists for talks. However, many prominent activists have rejected the overture, urging immediate action on issues like corruption.

The protests, initially peaceful, quickly turned violent, with some protesters briefly storming parliament and the police resorting to opening fire. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported that more than 50 people were killed during the protests, with allegations of police using excessive force. The commission also claimed that 59 individuals were kidnapped or missing, while 628 others were arbitrarily arrested.

Security analyst Stella Agara suggested that the protests would intensify and become more frequent unless President Ruto listens to the grievances of the demonstrators. Agara expressed concerns that Ruto seemed disconnected from the reality of Kenyans' frustrations and the reasons driving the protests. Ruto, on the other hand, accused the Ford Foundation of sponsoring the violence and unrest, a claim the organization vehemently denied.

As the protests continue to escalate, the Kenyan public eagerly awaits a resolution to the ongoing tensions. The coming days will reveal whether President Ruto and the government can effectively address the demands for reform and restore harmony in the country.