Barack Obama’s step-sister, Auma Obama, was tear-gassed on Tuesday while protesting against the controversial Finance bill.
Auma Obama, an activist, joined the rally to support young demonstrators demanding legislators vote down the bill.
As she spoke to CNN, she wiped her face and struggled to breathe.
“I can’t believe these young people are just trying to demonstrate for their rights,” she said. “We have flags and banners, nothing else, and we’re being tear-gassed.”
Thousands of protesters gathered outside Kenya’s Parliament after lawmakers passed the tax hike.
As protesters stormed the building, chaos ensued, forcing lawmakers to flee through a tunnel.
According to Amnesty International and other Kenyan civic groups, at least five people were fatally shot, dozens were injured, and 21 are missing after clashes with the police.
Besides, Kenyans, already struggling with the high cost of living, rallied under the banner “7 Days of Rage” against the Finance Bill 2024, which aims to raise taxes to reduce the country’s $80 billion debt.
The high inflation and increasing food costs, rent, and utilities have fueled public anger.
Moreover, the Kenya Human Rights Commission shared videos of police firing at protesters and using tear gas. They called on President William Ruto to “end the repression of peaceful protesters.”
Young people, who largely led the movement against the bill, used social media to organize protests with the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024.
Many of these young people had voted for Ruto in 2022, believing his promises of economic relief.
Furthermore, they feel betrayed. “I fell for his lies,” said voter Oscar Saina. “Now I’m out here regretting why I voted for him.”
