Kenya is in the grip of intense anti-government protests as 'Total Shutdown Tuesday' unfolds on July 16, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's struggle against economic hardship and political discontent. 

Youths across major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu have taken to the streets, closing shops and schools, and setting fires, demanding President William Ruto's resignation. 

The unrest, sparked by proposed tax hikes and widespread dissatisfaction with the government, has already resulted in 41 deaths and over 600 arrests since June 18. 

Despite Ruto's drastic measures, including firing his entire cabinet, the protests show no signs of abating, as demonstrators call for greater accountability and transparency.

What?

Kenya is engulfed in a wave of intense protests known as 'Total Shutdown Tuesday.' As of July 16, cities across the nation are experiencing unprecedented turmoil. 

Protesters have taken to the streets, responding to calls for mass demonstrations against the government. 

This upheaval follows violent protests on July 2, which saw significant casualties and disruptions in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Migori.

Shops are closed, smoke fills the air, and fires rage in Nairobi and Mombasa. Demonstrators are expressing their frustration with the government, chanting "Ruto must go" as they march through the streets. 

The situation is being compared to an apocalypse, with chaos spreading through Kenya's major cities. The protests are organized by youth groups who are disillusioned with President William Ruto's administration.

Since the protests began on June 18, there have been 41 deaths and over 600 arrests. The unrest is fueled by proposed tax hikes and dissatisfaction with the government's handling of economic issues. 

Despite some concessions from President Ruto, including the dismissal of his entire cabinet except for Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, the protests have only intensified.

Who?

The main participants in these protests are young Kenyans, who have mobilized in large numbers to demand change. These youths are part of a generation facing economic hardships and high unemployment rates. 

Their discontent is directed squarely at President William Ruto and his administration, whom they blame for their struggles.

President Ruto's drastic actions, including the firing of his cabinet and promises to eliminate certain government offices, have done little to quell the unrest. The youth see these moves as too little, too late. They demand more substantial changes to address their grievances.

The protesters are not only calling for economic reforms but also for greater accountability and transparency in government. 

They are frustrated with what they perceive as corruption and mismanagement at the highest levels of power. The movement has grown rapidly, with thousands taking to the streets across the country.

When?

The current wave of protests began on June 18 and has continued to escalate. July 16 marks a significant day of action, with protests taking place in multiple cities simultaneously. 

The previous round of demonstrations on July 2 saw violent clashes and significant casualties, setting the stage for the current unrest.

The protests have been organized through social media, with calls for 'Total Shutdown Tuesday' spreading rapidly online. Organizers chose this day to maximize impact and draw attention to their demands. 

The coordination of these protests has been impressive, with large numbers of people mobilizing across the country.

The demonstrations are happening right now, with reports of ongoing disruptions and violence. In Nairobi, Mombasa, and other cities, protesters are out in force, chanting slogans and demanding change. The situation is fluid, with new developments occurring by the hour.

The timing of the protests is critical, as the youth are using this moment to press for significant reforms. 

Their persistence has put immense pressure on President Ruto's administration, which is struggling to respond effectively to the widespread discontent.

Why?

The root cause of the protests is widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration's policies. 

The proposed tax hikes have been a major flashpoint, sparking anger among young Kenyans who are already struggling with economic hardships. They feel that the government's policies are exacerbating their difficulties.

President Ruto's attempts to address the issues have been seen as inadequate. The firing of his cabinet and promises to eliminate certain government offices have not satisfied the protesters. They demand more substantial changes to address their economic and social grievances.

The youth are also frustrated with corruption and mismanagement in the government. They believe that these issues are contributing to their struggles and preventing them from achieving a better future. The protests are a way for them to voice their discontent and push for greater accountability.

The call for 'Total Shutdown Tuesday' reflects the protesters' determination to keep up the pressure until their demands are met. They see this as a pivotal moment to force the government to listen and take meaningful action.

Where?

The protests are taking place in major cities across Kenya, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Migori. 

Each of these cities is experiencing significant disruptions, with schools, businesses, and roads affected by the unrest. 

The scenes of chaos are widespread, with fires, barricades, and clashes between protesters and police.

In Nairobi, the protests have centered around key areas such as Moi Avenue and the State House. 

The police have deployed tear gas to disperse demonstrators, leading to tense confrontations. 

The city is on edge, with many businesses shut down and residents fearing further violence.

Mombasa is also heavily affected, with several wards experiencing closures of schools and businesses. 

Major roads in the city have been barricaded, and there are reports of tires being set ablaze. The atmosphere is volatile, with the local authorities closely monitoring the situation.

Kisumu has seen youths blocking the Nairobi-Kisumu highway and setting up roadblocks in the city center. 

The police have taken measures to protect key locations, such as the State House Lodge. Despite these efforts, the protests continue, drawing significant attention to the grievances of the demonstrators.

How?

The protests have been organized through social media, with calls to action spreading rapidly among young Kenyans.

The organizers have used platforms like Twitter and Facebook to coordinate efforts and rally support. This has allowed for a high level of coordination and participation across the country.

In Nairobi and Mombasa, the protests have led to significant disruptions. Shops and schools have closed, and major roads have been barricaded. 

The demonstrators have set fires and clashed with police, creating a chaotic and dangerous situation in these cities.

Kisumu has seen youths blocking key highways and setting up roadblocks. The police have taken measures to protect important locations, but the protests continue. The situation is tense, with the potential for further violence as the demonstrations unfold.

The presence of masked armed groups in Kericho and Kakamega has raised concerns about possible infiltration and disruption of the protests. 

The Acting Police Inspector General, Douglas Kanja, has issued a warning about these groups, highlighting the risks of violence during the demonstrations.

Now What?

The protests show no signs of abating, with organizers planning more demonstrations until their demands are met. 

President Ruto's administration faces increasing pressure to address the concerns of the youth. 

With 41 lives lost and over 600 arrests made since the protests began, the situation remains volatile.