The funeral of the late Ibrahim Kamau, a 19-year-old who was shot dead during a protest against the government’s withdrawn tax bill, was held last Friday at a mosque in Nairobi. The funeral ceremony was filled with emotion as loved ones paid their last respects to Ibrahim Kamau, whose death sent shock waves through the Kenyan capital.
Members of the funeral procession, deeply affected by this tragic loss, carried the coffin through the streets of Nairobi, expressing their pain and outrage at the violence that led to the deaths of several people during the protests.
The violence that occurred on Tuesday culminated with the assault on parliament by demonstrators, provoking clashes with the police which left numerous victims, some sources putting the number of deaths at 22.
The reaction of the authorities did not ease tensions, since the police had to use tear gas on Thursday to disperse the demonstrators who continued to gather despite the withdrawal of the bill by President William Ruto, following the strong protest of the Kenyan population.
This tax bill, strongly criticized for its implications on the cost of living, has sparked unprecedented mobilization in the country, particularly from young demonstrators who express their concern about the increase in financial burdens weighing on the population.
Despite William Ruto’s commitment to review the bill and make budget cuts to compensate for the proposed taxes, some demonstrators have expressed distrust of the authorities and are continuing to mobilize in protest.
This tragedy highlights social and political tensions in Kenya, revealing deep unease with the government’s economic policies and highlighting the need for more open and inclusive dialogue to address people’s concerns.
The funeral of Ibrahim Kamau is a sad reminder of the tragic consequences of social and political conflicts, and underlines the urgency of concerted action to establish a climate of trust and justice in Kenyan society.
The images of this funeral procession will remain etched in memories, symbolizing both mourning and the determination of citizens to make their voices heard and defend their rights in a context of struggle for more equitable social and economic justice.