Actress Lupita Nyong’o has spoken out against the recent crackdown on anti-tax protests in Kenya, labeling the government’s response as chilling and reminiscent of past oppressive tactics.
The protests, which started in June, were met with police brutality and resulted in numerous deaths and abductions, as reported by rights groups.
Nyong’o, whose father was a victim of torture and imprisonment under former President Daniel Arap Moi’s regime, expressed her dismay at the government’s handling of the situation.
She highlighted the importance of the younger generation standing up for change in Kenya and commended their efforts.
The Kenyan government, in response to Nyong’o’s criticism, stated that it is regrettable for any deaths that occurred during the protests but insisted that the two administrations cannot be compared.
The government also emphasized its cooperation with protesters and willingness to meet their demands.
Nyong’o, an Oscar-winning actress known for her roles in films like 12 Years a Slave and Black Panther, shared her father’s story of activism and resistance against Moi’s regime on her podcast, Mind Your Own.
The podcast aims to explore African narratives beyond the usual themes of conflict and poverty, focusing on ordinary individuals experiencing extraordinary situations.
While Nyong’o acknowledges the diversity and complexity of African stories, she is passionate about providing a platform for African voices to be heard. Collaborating with African creatives, Nyong’o ensures that her podcast reflects the richness and diversity of the continent’s storytelling traditions.
