Kenya in turmoil: 13 Killed in tax protest violence

Violence erupted in Kenya on Tuesday as anti-tax hike protests turned deadly.

According to the Kenya Medical Association, at least 13 people have been killed after police opened fire on demonstrators who stormed Parliament. 

The unrest has shocked the nation and prompted President William Ruto to deploy the military to restore order.

The protests, led mainly by young Kenyans, began peacefully last week with demonstrations against proposed tax increases. 

However, tensions escalated on Tuesday when clashes broke out between protesters and police. Images shared by local media showed demonstrators storming Parliament, leading to extensive damage.

President Ruto condemned the violence and vowed a strong response.

He criticized some demonstrators as "criminals" and warned against "violence and anarchy."

The international community, including the White House, UN, and African Union, expressed deep concern about the violence.

They urged all sides to remain calm and work towards a peaceful resolution.

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The protests stem from long-running grievances over the rising cost of living.

The proposed tax hikes, intended to service the country's national debt, further strained public anger.

Kenya faces a challenging road ahead.

The government grapples with economic hardship and a divided political landscape.

With tensions still high, it remains to be seen how the country will navigate this crisis.