At least 16 people have been killed and over 400 injured in anti-government protests across Kenya, according to Amnesty Kenya. The demonstrations erupted on Wednesday as thousands took to the streets in Nairobi and other cities to protest a proposed tax hike.
According to Reuters, police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds, leading to violent clashes and numerous casualties. Irungu Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty Kenya, confirmed that 16 deaths have been verified so far, most of which resulted from police gunfire.
The state-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported that all the deceased had sustained gunshot wounds. Among the injured are protesters, police officers, and journalists.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) stated in a press release that at least 61 individuals were arrested during the protests.
Officials from Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi confirmed that they had admitted over 100 injured people. Most had been wounded by rubber bullets and live ammunition, though no fatalities occurred at the hospital.
On Wednesday morning, thousands of demonstrators marched toward the official presidential residence, State House. Kenyan TV channels NTV and KTN were broadcasting the event live, but the government ordered them to cease coverage. When the channels refused, the Communications Authority of Kenya shut down their transmissions.
A similar protest over tax issues last year claimed at least 60 lives.