Barack Obama’s Half-Sister Tear-Gassed During Protests in Kenya
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Barack Obama’s half-sister, Auma Obama, was tear-gassed while participating in protests against a tax hike in Kenya. The activist shared her experience in a recent interview.
Tearful and shaken, Obama recounted her ordeal to CNN. She joined the protests in solidarity with young demonstrators opposing a new tax-raising bill.
Despite the peaceful intent of the attendees, violence erupted when many stormed Parliament. The chaos resulted in at least five deaths and numerous injuries, according to Amnesty International.
“I can’t believe that these young people are just trying to demonstrate for their rights,” Obama said. “We have flags and banners, nothing else, and we are being tear-gassed.”
The protestors, primarily young people and part of the #RejectFinanceBill2024 movement gathered at Parliament, chanting against President William Ruto.
Some demonstrators lit a fire inside the building while others marched with the Kenyan flag. Many had supported Ruto in the 2022 election but now regret their choice due to his economic policies.
“I fell for his lies,” remarked Oscar Saina, who voted for Ruto. “Now I’m out here regretting why I voted for him.”
Obama expressed her shock at the police response and the resultant deaths. She urged Kenyan leaders to stop the violence and listen to their citizens’ concerns.
“How can you tear-gas your own people?” she asked. “Listen to them. Listen to these children. They’re the future.”
The Kenyan Human Rights Commission has alleged that the police abducted many activists who participated in the protests, with dozens reportedly missing after the demonstrations.
Barack Obama’s half-sister, Auma Obama, was tear-gassed while participating in protests against a tax hike in Kenya. The activist shared her experience in a recent interview.
Tearful and shaken, Obama recounted her ordeal to CNN. She joined the protests in solidarity with young demonstrators opposing a new tax-raising bill.
Despite the peaceful intent of the attendees, violence erupted when many stormed Parliament. The chaos resulted in at least five deaths and numerous injuries, according to Amnesty International.
“I can’t believe that these young people are just trying to demonstrate for their rights,” Obama said. “We have flags and banners, nothing else, and we are being tear-gassed.”
The protestors, primarily young people and part of the #RejectFinanceBill2024 movement gathered at Parliament, chanting against President William Ruto.
Some demonstrators lit a fire inside the building, while others marched with the Kenyan flag. Many had supported Ruto in the 2022 election but now regret their choice due to his economic policies.
“I fell for his lies,” remarked Oscar Saina, who voted for Ruto. “Now I’m out here regretting why I voted for him.”
Obama expressed her shock at the police response and the resultant deaths. She urged Kenyan leaders to stop the violence and listen to their citizens’ concerns.
“How can you tear-gas your own people?” she asked. “Listen to them. Listen to these children. They’re the future.”
The Kenyan Human Rights Commission has alleged that the police abducted many activists who participated in the protests, with dozens reportedly missing after the demonstrations.
