Frustrated Zimbabweans Give Praises to Kenyan Youths

By Shingirai Vambe

Zimbabweans have taken to social media to express their admiration for Kenyan youths, including women and girls, who bravely protested in the streets, marching towards the Parliament building and State House. The protests marked the anniversary of the day when youths were killed by authorities during a tax demonstration last year.

The Kenyan youths showed remarkable courage and determination as they faced off against the police, who were deployed in large numbers with tear gas, water cannons, and live rounds. Despite the tense atmosphere, the protesters remained resolute in their demands for change.

Zimbabweans who witnessed the protests live on social media and international news channels were impressed by the boldness and bravery of the Kenyan youths. Many commented that the youths of today are not yet ready to free Zimbabwe, as their fellow youths in Kenya have been and remain bold to face their government despite the risks.

The protests in Kenya were marked by clashes between police and demonstrators, with reports of injuries and arrests. According to Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, at least 16 people were killed, and over 400 were injured. The protests were held to commemorate the anniversary of the June 25, 2024, protests against tax rises, during which at least 60 people were killed by security forces.

The protesters demanded an end to police brutality, government corruption, and high taxes. They also called for President William Ruto to step down, chanting slogans like “Ruto Must Go” and “Occupy Statehouse.” The protests were largely peaceful, but scenes turned violent later, with police using live fire, rubber bullets, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.

The government responded to the protests by blocking main roads, barricading government buildings, and restricting live coverage of the protests. The interior minister, Kipchumba Murkomen, blamed protesters for the violence, describing the demonstrations as “terrorism disguised as dissent.”

The international community has expressed concern over the excessive use of force by the police. A joint statement by the embassies of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other Western nations urged all involved to “facilitate peaceful demonstrations and to refrain from violence.”

The protests in Kenya have highlighted the growing discontent among young people with the government’s handling of economic and social issues. The bravery and determination of the Kenyan youths have inspired many, including Zimbabweans, who are calling for similar change in their own country. The situation remains tense, with concerns about the police’s use of force and the impact on civilians.