President William Ruto of Kenya described the recent anti-Finance Bill protests as “treasonous” on Tuesday night, while overlooking reports of police violence, including the killing and abduction of protesters.
“Today, Kenya experienced an unprecedented attack on its democracy, the rule of law, and the integrity of its constitutional institutions,” Ruto stated, alleging that the protests were “hijacked” by “criminals pretending to be peaceful protesters.”
During a national broadcast, Ruto announced that he had directed national security organs to thwart any attempts by criminals to undermine Kenya’s security and stability. He characterized the nationwide protests as “treasonous events.”
The protests in Nairobi turned violent, with Kenyan police reportedly using live ammunition on demonstrators, resulting in 10 deaths and approximately 50 injuries.
Despite these incidents, Ruto did not address the killings or the earlier reports by Amnesty International regarding the secret abductions of protesters.
Instead, Ruto commended the security officers for their efforts. “I thank the security officers who were on duty today for applying themselves to the best of their abilities in the defence of Kenya and its people,” he added.
Earlier, Aden Bare Duale, Kenya’s cabinet secretary for defence and chairperson of the Defence Council, announced the deployment of the military to support police efforts in suppressing the protests.
The demonstrations were sparked by opposition to a controversial Finance Bill that imposes taxes on various commodities, including cars, phones, sanitary pads, and bread. Hundreds of angry youths stormed Kenya’s parliament, defying police clampdowns and attacks.
Follow the Parallel Facts channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCQSAoHgZWiDjR3Kn2E
