Is Kenya a Democracy?

All indications are that Kenya is facing a serious crisis that threatens its democratic institutions. Protests against President William Ruto's government led to violent clashes between demonstrators and police, leaving dozens dead and injured. The government's response to the protests, including orders to shoot demonstrators who attacked shops in the legs, has been criticized as harsh and authoritarian. Although Kenya has a long history of democratic elections, the current situation suggests that the country is facing a severe test of its democratic institutions. The protests are driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the government's handling of corruption, economic inequality, and police brutality. It is difficult to say whether Kenya is still a democracy or not, but the current situation is certainly cause for concern. The government's actions and rhetoric point to growing authoritarianism, and the protests are a symptom of a deeper crisis in the country's governance.   Some experts, such as Karuti Kanyinga, a professor at the University of Nairobi, described the protests as a symptom of a "failed system of governance." Others, such as Meron Elias, an analyst at the International Crisis Group, noted that protesters felt unheard and that the situation had not really changed since last year's protests.