Kenya’s defense minister deploys military to deal with 'security emergency'

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - Kenya’s Defense Minister Aden Duale on Tuesday evening deployed military to deal with a “security emergency” after violent demonstrations against tax hikes claimed 10 lives in the capital Nairobi.

At least 10 people were killed and dozens more injured on Tuesday when police opened fire on hundreds of protesters who stormed the parliament compound in Nairobi to protest the recent increase in taxes.

“This is in response to the security emergency caused by ongoing violent protests in various parts of the country,” Duale said.

Thousands of youth stormed parliament in the Kenyan capital sending lawmakers scampering in fear. Police cars were torched and shops and businesses were looted and vandalized.

Helicopters were also seen flying low around the capital Nairobi.

In various cities, including Nairobi, Eldoret, and Kisumu, storeowners reported significant losses as looters smashed windows, stole merchandise, and vandalized property amid the chaos.

Meanwhile, Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga has urged the government to stop killing Kenyan "children" and withdraw the Finance Bill 2024.