Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Nairobi, Kenya, after lawmakers passed a bill to raise taxes, sparking clashes with police and leaving several people dead. Among the demonstrators was Auma Obama, a Kenyan activist and half-sister of former US President Barack Obama, who was hit with tear-gas while rallying against the tax increase.

The protest, organized under the banner "7 Days of Rage," aimed to combat the Finance Bill 2024, which will impose higher taxes on millions of Kenyans. Frustrated with the high cost of living in the country, demonstrators voiced their opposition to the bill, fearing that it would make their lives even harder. Kenya currently struggles with an $80 billion debt and soaring inflation, which has placed significant financial burdens on its residents.

Videos shared by the Kenya Human Rights Commission showed police firing at protesters and deploying tear gas during the chaotic scenes. The commission, along with other civic groups and Amnesty International, have called on President William Ruto to put an end to the repression of peaceful protesters. Social media played a significant role in galvanizing the movement, with the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024 being used to mobilize support and amplify the protesters' demands.

Many of the demonstrators expressed their disappointment and a sense of betrayal towards President Ruto, who had promised economic relief during his election campaign. They set fire to part of the Parliament's main entrance, marched with the Kenyan flag, and chanted "Ruto must go," demanding accountability from their leaders.

Tragically, the protests turned violent, resulting in the reported deaths of at least five people, dozens of injuries, and 21 missing individuals. The situation became increasingly tense as protesters clashed with police, storming the Parliament building and prompting lawmakers to flee through a tunnel for safety.

International organizations, including Amnesty International and the Kenya Law Society, have accused the police of abducting dozens of Kenyans. Faith Odhiambo, president of the law society, denounced these alleged abductions, sharing her concerns on social media and publicly condemning President Ruto's handling of the situation.

Amidst the chaos, Auma Obama, visibly distressed, pleaded with Kenyan leaders to listen to the voices of the young protesters. She questioned the use of tear gas against their own people and emphasized the importance of paying attention to the future and aspirations of the country's youth.

The aftermath of these protests serves as a stark reminder of the growing discontent among Kenyans regarding their economic struggles. As the government attempts to address the country's significant debt, it must also consider the concerns and demands of its citizens to ensure a fair and prosperous future for all.