Nairobi erupts as protesters demand President Ruto's resignation

Nairobi witnessed chaotic scenes on Thursday as police clashed with protesters demanding the resignation of President William Ruto.

The unrest saw tear gas deployed against demonstrators in the heart of Kenya’s capital, leading to widespread business closures and the suspension of public transport services in the central business district.

The protests, organized by activists dissatisfied with Ruto’s leadership, coincided with the swearing-in of a new cabinet. This cabinet shuffle, which included opposition members, came after weeks of pro-reform demonstrations that had previously forced the president to scrap planned tax hikes.

While some viewed the inclusion of opposition figures and the withdrawal of the controversial finance bill as victories, others felt these measures fell short. Protester Nicole Awuori articulated the sentiment of discontent, stating, “I am here for the people we lost during the march, who were asking the government for accountability. I am protesting for the people who have missed out on so many opportunities because of broken systems.”

The initial wave of demonstrations began on June 18, driven by calls to reject the finance bill. The situation escalated on June 25 when protesters stormed parliament following the bill’s passage, prompting President Ruto to announce its withdrawal. Despite these concessions, the protests have continued, resulting in over 50 fatalities, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.

Interestingly, Thursday’s protests did not gain traction in other major towns and cities, where some residents felt appeased by the inclusion of opposition figures in the new cabinet. President Ruto has condemned the ongoing protests, urging Kenyans to avoid them and reminding citizens that they can vote for change in the 2027 elections.