Kenya’s police chief, Japhet Koome, has resigned amidst escalating violence during protests against proposed tax increases, which have claimed over 40 lives.
Human rights organizations have accused the police of using lethal force against demonstrators, leading to deaths and widespread arbitrary arrests and abductions.
President William Ruto dismissed most of his cabinet following mounting pressure from the protest movement, primarily organized online by Kenyan youth.
The protests intensified after demonstrators stormed parliament immediately after the passage of a contentious finance bill two weeks ago.
Despite President Ruto withdrawing the bill subsequently, protests continued with demands for his resignation and further governmental reforms.
Deputy police chief Douglas Kanja has assumed immediate control of the police force, as announced by the Kenyan presidency.
