Heartbreak in Nairobi: Mosque Hosts Funeral for Teen Killed in Protest

The funeral of 19-year-old Ibrahim Kamau, who was fatally shot during a protest against the government’s proposed tax bill, was held at a mosque in Nairobi on Friday. Mourners gathered to pay their respects and then carried the coffin through the streets of the city after the funeral service.

The protest on Tuesday resulted in chaos, with protesters storming parliament and drawing police fire, leading to the reported deaths of as many as 22 people.

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Despite President William Ruto’s rejection of the unpopular tax legislation, anti-tax protesters continued to gather in Nairobi, prompting the police to use tear gas to disperse the crowds. The proposed finance bill has faced strong opposition from the public, particularly from younger protesters who are struggling with the increased cost of living.

Even after Ruto’s promise to send the finance bill back to parliament and make budget cuts to replace the proposed new taxes and fees, protesters who gathered on Thursday expressed their lack of trust in the president. They remain skeptical of the government’s intentions, especially regarding the proposed taxes and fees on various items and services.