Kenyans Experience Relief as Violent Protests Subside Government Remains Cautious

NAIROBI, Kenya — Following weeks of turmoil marked by protests resulting in numerous casualties and widespread disruption, a sense of relief has descended upon Nairobi. People thronged the main markets in the capital to procure essential goods, signaling a return to normalcy.

Anadolu's recent spot check revealed that business operations had resumed without incident. Streets bustled with shoppers, and traffic flowed smoothly through Nairobi's bustling Central Business District (CBD). However, some traders stood guard outside their shops on Ronald Ngala Street, armed with wooden sticks.

Brian Ouma, proprietor of a shoe store on the popular street, shared his relief amidst the backdrop of recent unrest, "We've been protecting our shops from looters since last week. Some of us have suffered significant losses and incurred debts. It's a relief to see the situation stabilizing."

"With people back on the streets, businesses open, and life returning to normal, it's a positive sign," Ouma added.

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Despite signs of recovery, remnants of the protests lingered in certain areas — broken windows, looted shops, burnt-out tires, and debris from barricades. The unrest, initially sparked by proposed tax increases, saw diminishing participation recently due to escalating chaos, robberies, and vandalism. Social media activists and youth urged restraint, highlighting concerns about looting infiltrating peaceful protests.

According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the protests since June 18 have claimed at least 39 lives. The unrest was triggered by the Finance Bill 2024, integral to Kenya's agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), aimed at tackling fiscal challenges. The bill proposed tax hikes to generate over $2.7 billion for the government's ambitious $30.6 billion budget for 2024-25.

President William Ruto, responding to the situation, pledged to hold accountable police officers involved in injuring protesters. "Those responsible will face legal consequences through appropriate institutions," he affirmed after a Cabinet meeting, acknowledging the substantial financial toll from protest-related damages.

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