Protester Killed, Another Hurt as Police Fire on Demonstrators During Kiambu Fuel Protests

Two individuals sustained gunshot wounds during demonstrations in Kiambu, resulting in one fatality while the other receives medical care at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital. Additionally, a female police officer suffered injuries after falling from a police vehicle in motion and is now receiving treatment at St. Bridgit Private Hospital. Local residents have alleged that security personnel employed disproportionate measures when dispersing protesters who were demonstrating against escalating fuel prices, which they assert have detrimentally impacted livelihoods nationwide. Furious citizens report that the escalating cost of living has dramatically altered their everyday existence, pressing the government to reassess policies they claim disadvantage ordinary Kenyans. Economic activities in Kiambu Town came to a complete halt as business owners closed their establishments, gasoline stations ceased operations, and financial institutions suspended services following confrontations between police and young demonstrators. Authorities deployed tear gas and discharged firearms into the atmosphere to break up gatherings, transforming certain areas of the town into restricted zones. Margaret Njeri, a street fruit seller, accused police of deploying tear gas against what she characterized as peaceful assembly members demanding lower fuel costs. She implored Members of Parliament to advocate for public interests and demand governmental accountability. Lucy Nyongesa, a young demonstrator, shared similar views, expressing outrage that Kenyans exercising their democratic right to protest were met with chemical agents and lethal ammunition. She voiced her displeasure with the current leadership regarding the increasing cost of living.