Kenyan demonstrators are determined to persist in their protests against recent tax hikes despite a government crackdown that resulted in at least eight fatalities and numerous injuries when crowds attempted to storm parliament on Tuesday.
Armed officers now patrol Nairobi’s streets as protesters move their activism to various locations under the banner of “tutanethursday” (#tutanethursday), a mix of Swahili and English meaning “see you on Thursday”.
Initially sparked by anger over tax increases, the movement has evolved into a nationwide outcry demanding the complete withdrawal of the bill, even after the government made some concessions.
Calls for President William Ruto’s resignation have also emerged amidst allegations of excessive force, which the president justified by labeling protesters as “criminals pretending to be peaceful”.
Despite parliamentary amendments removing certain tax hikes, discontent remains high with calls to scrap the entire bill.
Social media has played a pivotal role in organizing these protests, which have spread across numerous Kenyan towns and cities, showcasing a decentralized and leaderless movement challenging government policies.
