Kenyan activist Auma Obama, half-sister of former U.S. President Barack Obama, found herself caught in the midst of violent protests in Nairobi. As demonstrators clashed with police outside the parliament building, Auma Obama, who had joined the protest against a new tax bill, was tear-gassed. The incident unfolded live on CNN, capturing the chaos and violence that erupted during the demonstrations.
Police opened fire on protesters attempting to storm the legislature, resulting in a tragic outcome. At least five individuals lost their lives, while dozens sustained injuries. The violence also left parts of the parliament building engulfed in flames as lawmakers inside voted on the controversial tax legislation.
A CNN reporter encountered Auma Obama amidst the commotion and asked her about her participation in the protest. “I’m here because – look at what’s happening. Young Kenyans are demonstrating for their rights. They’re demonstrating with flags and banners. I can’t even see anymore,” she said, her voice choked with emotion as she coughed and shielded her eyes from the spreading smoke. “We are being tear-gassed.”
Behind her, a man held a sign reading, “Colonialism never ended in Kenya,” while another demonstrator yelled, “This is our country. This is our nation.”
Earlier that day, Auma Obama had shared pictures of herself at the protest on her Twitter account. However, the office of former President Barack Obama did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the incident involving his sister or the escalating violence in Kenya. The events underscore the deeply rooted social and economic tensions simmering within Kenya, prompting widespread public outcry and raising concerns about the government’s response to the growing dissent.
