The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has called on Kenyan President William Ruto to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue amid escalating protests over proposed tax hikes that have left dozens dead and the country in turmoil.
In a phone call on Wednesday, Blinken welcomed President Ruto’s commitment to reducing tensions and engaging with protesters and civil society, according to a statement from the US State Department. The call comes after a week of violent demonstrations that saw protesters storm and set fire to parts of the Kenyan Parliament Building in Nairobi.
“The Secretary underscored the importance of security forces demonstrating restraint and refraining from violence,” said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller. Blinken also “encouraged prompt investigations into allegations of human rights abuses,” reflecting growing international concern over the heavy-handed response to the protests.
The unrest, which began on June 21 as part of a “7 Days of Rage” campaign, was sparked by the proposed Finance Bill 2024, which includes tax increases on basic goods and services. The protests have been largely organised by young Kenyans, who argue that the bill would further burden an already struggling population.
President Ruto, who initially described the protests as “treasonous”, has since softened his stance. Blinken praised the Kenyan leader’s “commitment to Kenyans’ constitutionally-endowed rights, including peaceful assembly and due process for those detained.”
The violence reached a peak on June 25 when thousands of protesters stormed the Parliament Building, resulting in more than 50 reported deaths as police opened fire on demonstrators. The incident prompted the deployment of military forces to support law enforcement efforts.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has condemned the crackdown on protesters and called for the withdrawal of the contentious finance bill. Despite President Ruto’s subsequent U-turn on the legislation, demonstrations continued, with some protesters demanding his resignation.
The US, a long-standing ally of Kenya, has reiterated its support for the East African nation during this period of upheaval. “The Secretary reiterated the partnership of the United States with Kenya’s government and people as they work to address their economic challenges,” Miller stated.
