Nairobi, Kenya – Tensions flared in the heart of Nairobi today as anti-government demonstrations turned chaotic, with riot police resorting to tear gas to disperse crowds gathered near Parliament. What started as a peaceful protest organized by civil society groups and opposition parties swiftly escalated into a scene of confrontation and unrest.

The protest, fueled by widespread grievances over alleged government corruption and economic hardships exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, drew thousands of demonstrators to the streets. Chanting slogans and waving banners demanding accountability and economic reforms, the protesters marched toward Parliament, intent on making their voices heard.

As the crowd swelled in size, clashes erupted between demonstrators and law enforcement officers, who formed a barricade to prevent the protesters from advancing further. Despite initial attempts to maintain order through negotiation and warnings, tensions reached a breaking point when a small faction of protesters began throwing stones and setting small fires.

In response, riot police deployed tear gas to disperse the increasingly unruly crowds. The acrid fumes quickly filled the air, sending protesters scattering in disarray. Amidst the chaos, some demonstrators donned makeshift masks and doused themselves with water to alleviate the effects of the tear gas, while others sought refuge in nearby buildings and alleyways.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion and panic as protesters, including women and children, struggled to find safety amidst the swirling clouds of tear gas. Several individuals were seen receiving medical attention for respiratory distress and minor injuries sustained during the clashes.

The government’s response to the protests has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and opposition leaders, who accuse authorities of using excessive force to suppress dissent. Calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution have intensified as Kenya braces for further demonstrations in the coming days.

President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration has yet to issue an official statement regarding today’s events, but government officials have defended the use of tear gas as a necessary measure to restore order and safeguard public safety. Meanwhile, civil society groups have vowed to continue their campaign for accountability and reforms, pledging to escalate their efforts until their demands are met.

The situation remains fluid as tensions simmer and the fallout from today’s clashes reverberates across the nation. With emotions running high and the political landscape increasingly polarized, Kenya finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with the complexities of democracy, governance, and the right to peaceful protest. As the dust settles on today’s events, the eyes of the nation and the international community remain fixed on Kenya, watching closely as events unfold and the path forward is charted.