Leah Nelima |
Hundreds of people marched on Sunday in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, to honor those who died in antigovernmental protests last week, with President William Ruto insisting that, and I quote him here: “I am not involved in the bloodshed.”
Human rights groups say 30 people died in protests sparked by the government’s move to increase taxes in the East African nation.
Following the riots, Ruto announced a change of position early last week, saying he would “listen to the people” and would not sign the money bill into law.
In a television interview, Ruto said 19 people had died, the first number released by the authorities, and promised a full investigation into the deaths.
The largely peaceful protests turned violent last Tuesday when lawmakers passed a widely opposed tax hike following pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The police opened fire on the protesters who stormed the parliament buildings and a fire broke out.
“I am not involved in bloodshed,” Ruto said in an interview with Kenyan television.
Speaking about the deaths, he said “It is a very sad situation. As a democratic nation, such a situation should not affect our discussion.”
He added that “An investigation will be conducted on how the 19 people died.”
“Details will be provided about each death.”
Ruto said “The police tried to do their best.”
“If there has been excessive use of force, we have ways to ensure that that excessive use of force is dealt with.”