A 29-year-old man was fatally shot during anti-tax protests in Kenya, sparking widespread outrage. Eight injured protesters remain in critical condition, according to the Kenyan Red Cross.
Rex Kanyike Masai died from gunshot wounds, a doctor confirmed. The protests, largely peaceful, saw police deploy tear gas and water cannons near parliament as lawmakers debated new tax proposals.
Amnesty International accused police of excessive force, noting over 100 arrests. The protests began Tuesday, leading the government to withdraw some contentious tax provisions, but anger remains high.
Police are investigating Masai’s death. Activist Boniface Mwangi stated Masai was unarmed, carrying only his ID and phone. His mother said he was shot while evading tear gas.
Kenyans mourned Masai on social media, with organizers promising to honor him as a hero. The Red Cross reported 39 injuries from the protests, with some victims suffering from gunshot wounds and tear gas inhalation.
Despite the protests, the controversial tax bill passed its second reading in parliament. The final vote is expected next Tuesday. The government defends the tax measures as essential to reducing the national debt of nearly $80 billion.
