Police chief resigns amid accusations of police brutality at protests in Kenya | DW News

Kenya's police chief Japhet Koome has resigned following criticism of police conduct during anti-government protests last month sparked by government tax hikes.

President William Ruto's office announced Koome's resignation the day after Ruto fired nearly his entire cabinet, bowing to the demands of protesters. Ruto withdrew the tax increases but protests have continued.

Demonstrations in several Kenyan cities, including the capital Nairobi, were met with heavy police presence. Protesters accuse police of using excessive force and abducting dozens of people as they tried to stop the demonstrations. At least 39 people have died since the protest broke out. The unrest comes as food prices continue to rise, causing pressure on households.