Protests in Kenya Against High Cost of Living Met with Police Violence: Calls for Accountability
LONDON, Aug 15 2023 (IPS) – Protests erupting across Kenya due to the high cost of living have been met with a disturbing level of police violence. While talks between the government and opposition are underway, it is clear that any resolution must prioritize accountability for the numerous human rights violations that have occurred in response to these protests.
Kenya’s economy has been under scrutiny since President William Ruto took office in August 2022, promising to address the rising cost of living. Despite his claims of being the candidate for the struggling people, the cost of living has continued to soar under his leadership. Ruto’s decision to eliminate subsidies on energy, fuel, and maize flour, coupled with subsequent increases in electricity prices and regressive tax hikes, have further burdened low-income citizens. The doubling of duty on petroleum products has particularly affected essential goods and transportation costs.
Ruto’s justification for these tax hikes stems from the need to reduce the country’s debt, which raised concerns of a potential debt default. The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank provided financial aid packages of approximately $1 billion each, subject to these tax increases. However, it is crucial to have a broader global discussion on restructuring the financial system to alleviate debt burdens in the Global South, without placing additional strain on struggling populations.
Exploiting economic frustration, Raila Odinga, the defeated presidential candidate who refused to accept the election results, has sought to mobilize public anger and capitalize on the discontent. Odinga’s claims of a rigged election gained traction when an anonymous whistleblower from the electoral commission provided alleged evidence of fraud in January, igniting political tensions. As a result, Odinga called for weekly protests in March.
Unfortunately, the government’s response to these protests has been characterized by a disproportionate use of force by security forces. Instead of employing peaceful means to disperse protesters, live ammunition, tear gas, and water cannons have been deployed. This heavy-handed approach has resulted in an alarming death toll, with victims shot at close range and even in their own homes. Innocent bystanders, including children, have also suffered from tear gas exposure.
Moreover, journalists attempting to report on the protests have been targeted by both the police and protesters, facing detention, harassment, threats, and physical violence. Media companies themselves have faced state intimidation and threats of license revocation for their coverage of the protests. This suppression of media freedom further exacerbates the violation of rights in Kenya.
While the government may perceive these protests as opposition-driven attempts to undermine their authority, it is crucial to remember that all individuals, regardless of their political affiliations, have the right to peaceful protest. Even if some protesters engage in acts of violence, the response from the police should be proportionate and in adherence to human rights standards.
Sadly, the state’s violent reaction to protests is not a new phenomenon. Kenya has a long history of suppressing dissent, restricting media freedom, and employing police violence. Similar violations occurred during previous cost-of-living protests leading up to the 2022 election and on multiple occasions before.
Addressing the current crisis requires more than just a dialogue on economic issues; it demands a comprehensive approach to tackle violence, repression, and impunity. The Public Order Act, which requires protest organizers to give authorities three days’ notice, has been misinterpreted to deny permission for protests without explanation before resorting to violent repression.
As discussions continue between the government and opposition, it is essential for President Ruto to demonstrate a departure from the practices of his predecessors. Upholding the rights of individuals to express their disagreement is a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive and accountable society in Kenya.
