Families of a Kenyan man slain by police during protests over the country’s high cost of living are clamoring for explanations and blaming President Ruto for neglecting to solve their issues.

In Kenya this month, police have killed at least 35 citizens during rallies against new taxes and rising living expenses.

The 27-year-old Douglas Kalasinga is believed to be one of them.

According to relatives, he was shot while at work, pushing a handcart of water cans, and was not involved in any protests.

“We want action taken against the police officer who was shooting randomly,” Rasto Sakulo, one of Kalasinga’s relatives, said.

“Why would they shoot at people carrying water? Those going about their daily lives? Should the police assist you or kill you if you encounter them?

If he was protesting, the police should have dispersed [the demonstrators]. Why would you aim a gun at a child? What will become of your child tomorrow?”

President William Ruto praised police for doing a “good job” keeping the peace during the protests, but later warned them against extrajudicial killings, adding that no public anarchy would be tolerated.

Ruto’s administration has accused the opposition of inciting chaos and has charged over 300 people this week alone with crimes such as looting, property destruction, and assaulting police.

Many Kenyans, however, accuse him of making life unbearable by raising fuel and other essential taxes and increasing food prices.

Emannuel Sikuku, Kalasinga’s friend, stated, “Police should not come to shoot people.” They should arrest suspects and conduct an investigation.

“Right now, people are struggling to survive, people are starving, and the cost of living is high.

“If I go to demonstrate, I’m not going to throw stones at anyone or steal anything. Why should you profile me?”

Human rights groups have expressed concern about police killings, arbitrary arrests, and detentions reported during this month’s protests, and have urged the policing watchdog to investigate and prosecute officers found guilty.

Kenya: Family Requests Information Regarding Police Killing During Protest

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