Kenyan Protests Quelled by Police Crackdown on Anti-Tax Hike Movement

Protests against tax hikes and high living costs in Kenya have subsided as heavy police presence and arrests have deterred demonstrators. Several people were reported shot in clashes with security forces on Wednesday, and at least 300 people were arrested, including senior opposition leaders. Despite minor skirmishes, most residents resumed their daily activities, with shops reopening and traffic returning to normal. The protests, organized by the opposition, have cost the economy over $20 million per day. Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who has called for acts of civil disobedience, stated that the demonstrations are about the citizens, not himself or other opposition leaders. President William Ruto praised the police for containing the protests and commended their efforts to maintain peace. The government argues that the tax hikes are necessary to address growing debt and fund job-creation initiatives.