Amy Fraser26 June 2024 | 5:50

Kenya is burning as Generation Z shows President William Ruto flames

The demonstrations turned deadly when police fired on protesters who stormed the legislature, resulting in at least five deaths.

Kenya is burning as Generation Z shows President William Ruto flames

Kenyan President William Ruto / Wikimedia Commons: U.S. Secretary of Defense

Bongani Bingwa interviews Crystal Orderson, our Africa correspondent.

Listen below.

On Tuesday, Kenyan President William Ruto emphasised security was his 'utmost priority' following violent protests against a bill to raise taxes.

The demonstrations turned deadly when police fired on protesters who stormed the legislature, resulting in at least five deaths.

Similar protests and clashes erupted in several other cities and towns across Kenya, with many calling for Ruto's resignation and expressing opposition to the tax hikes.

After a day of unrest and bloodshed, President Ruto addressed the nation with a message of both sadness and resolve.

He said that 'legitimate' protests against his policies had been 'hijacked by a group of organised criminals', warning that his government would use all means necessary to prevent a recurrence of the violence, 'at whatever cost'.

"Yesterday's protest turned absolutely violent... Kind of typical of Kenyan police, in times of protest they just go full out."
- Crystal Orderson

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.