In a wave of nationwide protests against proposed tax hikes, Kenya has been plunged into chaos, with Tuesday's "total shutdown" escalating into violence. The protests, which saw demonstrators take to the streets in the capital of Nairobi, resulted in at least five protesters being shot dead and around 31 others injured after Kenyan police fired live rounds.

Shocking scenes unfolded as a CNN team reported witnessing Kenyan police beating and arresting paramedics who were assisting injured protesters. The clashes were sparked by a controversial finance bill that has sparked widespread outrage and led to the torching of Parliament.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, expressed "deep concern" over the escalating violence and loss of life. He called on all stakeholders to exercise restraint and engage in constructive dialogue to address the contentious issues that led to the protests. The African Union reiterated its solidarity with the government and people of Kenya during this challenging time.

Kenyan President William Ruto addressed the nation, labeling Tuesday's events as a "critical turning point" in how the government responds to threats to national security. He condemned the attacks on Kenya's constitutional order, the loss of lives, and the destruction of property. Ruto emphasized that the government has mobilized all available resources to prevent such incidents from recurring and ensure the security of families and property.

Ruto denounced the protests as an "unprecedented attack" on the legitimacy of public expression of fundamental rights and freedoms. He accused a group of organized criminals of infiltrating and hijacking the protests. The President pledged that his government would respond promptly and effectively to the events, which he described as treasonous.

International condemnation has poured in, with the US State Department urging restraint, calling for the restoration of order, and emphasizing the need for dialogue. The United Nations Secretary-General also called on Kenya's police and security forces to exercise restraint.

As Kenya remains embroiled in violent protests, it is clear that tensions are running high. The government's assurance to prioritize the security of its citizens is a crucial step towards finding a resolution to the contentious issues underlying the demonstrations.