While the bulk of the action took place on the streets of Nairobi, some people stormed parliament and set fire to one of the buildings in the complex. Police responded with deadly force, killing at least five and injuring dozens more.
According to the BBC, many of those who managed to barge their way into the building proceeded to inflict damage on the halls of government. Some even managed to enter the official chambers and take selfies. Their actions trapped a number of lawmakers in the basement, where they sheltered to avoid the fury.
Meanwhile outside, thousands took to the streets to demand government do away with the proposed changes, and make life more affordable for everyday Kenyans. As CNN reports, while the majority of protestors were there to spread their message, some took advantage of the chaos to engage in "looting."
Among those protesting was Auma Obama, former American president Barack Obama's half-sister. During an interview with CNN, she revealed that she and others had been tear-gassed to the point where they could no longer see clearly.
In a joint statement, high commissions and embassies of thirteen European and North American nations expressed their thoughts on the matter.
"All actors have the responsibility to respect, uphold, promote and uphold the rule of law, particularly by ensuring a proportionate security response," the statement read, with signatories noting they were "deeply concerned by the violence witnessed in many parts of the country" and "especially shocked by the scenes witnessed outside the Kenyan Parliament."
"We regret the tragic loss of life and injuries sustained including the use of live fire," the statement continued, adding that the nations were "deeply concerned" by "allegations of abductions of protesters." They concluded by calling for "restraint on all sides."
Kenyan President William Ruto blamed the situation on "criminals" who "hijacked" the protest, and vowed to respond accordingly.
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