In June 2024, the Kenyan government proposed the Finance Bill, aiming to raise taxes to address the country's debt. This move sparked widespread anger among Kenyan youth, known as Gen Z, who felt unheard by their leaders. The proposed taxes on basic commodities infuriated citizens already struggling, leading to initial protests on June 18th and 20th.
On June 25th, over 100,000 Kenyans marched towards Parliament with the goal of occupying it. The atmosphere was initially festive, but as the Finance Bill was passed inside, the mood shifted. Protesters, feeling betrayed, broke through police lines and entered the Parliament grounds and building. Police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition.
During the initial incursion, security forces fired upon protestors. Two men, 25-year-old Erickson Mutisya and 39-year-old David Chege, were killed. BBC Africa Eye's investigation identified a specific police officer, John Kaboi, urging colleagues to 'kill' and another officer who fired the shots that killed Mutisya and Chege. Both victims were unarmed and not engaged in criminal activity.
Despite the earlier killings, the protests intensified. Eric Shieni, a 27-year-old university student, was at the forefront as protestors re-entered Parliament. As the crowd dispersed, Eric was shot and killed in the head. Detailed analysis of footage and photos identified a soldier, recognizable by his Kenyan Army uniform, as the person who fired the fatal shot at Eric as he was retreating. This highlights the unlawful and unnecessary use of force.
The events of June 25th resulted in approximately 30 deaths across Kenya. President Ruto initially blamed 'organised criminals,' but the BBC Africa Eye investigation contradicts this, showing peaceful protestors being met with lethal force. The documentary concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and justice for the victims and their families. The widespread protests ultimately led President Ruto to withdraw the Finance Bill the following day.