Barack Obama’s half-sister, Auma Obama, found herself amidst turmoil in Nairobi on Tuesday when she was exposed to tear gas while supporting protesters rallying against a new tax bill outside Kenya’s Parliament. In an emotional interview with CNN, she struggled to articulate her thoughts as she wiped tears and gas from her face, expressing disbelief at the treatment of peaceful demonstrators asserting their rights.

“I can’t believe that these young people are just trying to demonstrate for their rights,” Auma Obama told CNN. She had joined the protest to stand in solidarity with the youth and convey her support for their peaceful expression. "We’re being tear-gassed! We have flags and banners, nothing else.”

The protests erupted following the passage of the Finance Bill 2024 by legislators, which includes tax hikes aimed at addressing Kenya’s substantial debt of $80 billion. This move has exacerbated frustrations among Kenyans already grappling with high inflation and soaring living costs, prompting them to rally under the banner “7 Days of Rage.” The demonstrators argue that the tax increases will worsen their economic hardships.

The situation outside Parliament turned violent as protesters clashed with police, resulting in at least five deaths, numerous injuries, and reports of missing persons. Videos circulated by the Kenya Human Rights Commission depicted police firing at protesters and using tear gas, leading international organizations like Amnesty International to condemn the use of force against peaceful demonstrators.

Young people have taken the lead in these protests, organizing through social media with the hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024 to voice their dissent. Many feel disillusioned and betrayed by President William Ruto, whom they supported in the 2022 elections based on promises of economic relief. Now, protesters like Oscar Saina regret their votes and accuse Ruto of failing to fulfill his commitments.

Protesters set fire to part of Parliament’s main entrance and chanted slogans demanding Ruto’s resignation. Amid escalating tensions, Auma Obama’s impassioned plea for leadership to heed the voices of the youth resonated deeply.

“How can you tear-gas your own people?” she sobbed. “Listen to them. Listen to these children, they’re the future.”

President Ruto, who was away attending an African Union retreat, has yet to publicly address the unfolding crisis. Meanwhile, the protests continue to underscore deep-seated grievances and growing dissent within Kenya over economic policies and governance.