Auma Obama, the half-sister of former US President Barack Obama, found herself in the midst of turmoil in Kenya as she was tear gassed live on air during protests against Kenya's controversial finance bill. The incident unfolded while Auma, a Kenyan-British activist, was speaking with CNN's Larry Madowo alongside a group of teenage demonstrators.
"I can’t even see anymore, we’re being teargassed," she exclaimed during the interview.
Protests have erupted across Kenya in response to the Finance Bill 2024, which includes proposed tax hikes. These demonstrations are part of a series titled "7 Days of Rage" and are expected to culminate in a nationwide "total shutdown."
"I’m here because look at what’s happening. Young Kenyans are demonstrating for their rights. They are demonstrating with flags and banners," Obama expressed during the interview.
Kenya's President, William Ruto, has expressed support for the demonstrators, stating he is "proud" of their actions and hopes to engage with them.
Amidst the protests, there have been reports of security personnel allegedly targeting prominent Kenyans, particularly those with significant social media followings.
Amnesty International Kenya has raised concerns about the apparent abduction of up to 12 individuals, including bloggers, content creators, human rights activists, doctors, and legislative staff members.
Amnesty Kenya's executive director, Irungu Houghton, informed CNN that they are investigating these cases, highlighting the troubling trend of individuals being taken away during the night.
The protests coincide with Kenya's heightened international visibility following US President Joe Biden's recent decision to designate the country as a "major non-NATO ally." This historic move marks the first time a sub-Saharan African nation has received such a status.
President Biden's announcement came during a significant state visit to the White House, commemorating 60 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Kenya. Biden underscored his commitment to enhancing bilateral ties, including elevating Kenya's strategic importance on the global stage.
The developments in Kenya underscore a pivotal moment in its domestic and international affairs, highlighting both the country's internal challenges and its evolving role in global geopolitics.
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