In Summary
- Kioko is receiving treatment at Coast General Hospital in Mombasa.
- The tragedy comes on the heels of nationwide demonstrations orchestrated by the opposition
A 28 year old Engineering student set himself on fire today in Mombasa.
The desperate act was carried out as a protest against the severe economic times that have gripped many Kenyans him being among them.
Robert Kioko is alleged to have purchased paraffin and doused himself with it before igniting the flames at the Mwembe Tayari roundabout.
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Holding a Kenyan flag in his left hand, he climbed to the top of a structure and committed the shocking act while onlookers watched in horror.
“I’m not a thief, I have not stolen from anyone. I’m protesting because Raila’s victory (in the last presidential election) was stolen,”
he shouted .
Prior to setting himself ablaze, Kioko had vocalized his frustrations with the dire economic conditions that have left him unable to even afford basic necessities like food.
Citizens Rushed to Help
Disturbing video of the incident was shared online showing concerned citizens rushing to put out the fire that was burning Kioko’s body.
His clothes were entirely consumed by fire
He is currently receiving treatment at Coast General Hospital in Mombasa.
Unconfirmed reports indicate that he is a student at the Technical University of Mombasa.
READ ALSO: Reality Times As New Students Struggle to Raise University Fees
The tragedy comes on the heels of nationwide demonstrations orchestrated by the opposition, focusing on the exorbitant cost of living.
“The most important discussion in our country today is the high taxes, rising cost of living and the ensuing protests,”
Opposition leader Raila Odinga said.
“Although the tax protests have been initiated by Azimio, it has since gone beyond the party. After the passage of the finance act, Kenyans have defied party, political divides and united to resist punitive taxation and demand the lowering of the costs of basic commodities,”
These protests have unfortunately resulted in fatalities and property damage, indicating the depth of frustration and desperation experienced by many Kenyans.
