Kenya protests: Ex-US president Barack Obama's sister tear-gassed live on air

Auma Obama, who is former United States President Barack Obama's half-sister, was tear-gassed live on air by the police while protesting in Kenya against the controversial finance bill on Tuesday (Jun 25). As per the media outlets, the incident occurred while she was giving an interview to CNN.

A short clip of the interview was shared on social media platforms, in which Auma can be heard saying, "I can't even see anymore, we're being teargassed."

"I'm here because look at what's happening. Young Kenyans are demonstrating for their rights. They are demonstrating with flags and banners," Auma said.

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Police opened fire on protesters after tear gas and water cannons failed to disperse the crowds, killing at least five near parliament, a rights group said. News agency Reuters reported that its journalists saw people lying motionless on the ground amid clashes.

A Reuters journalist is said to have counted the bodies of at least five protesters outside parliament. Another paramedic, Vivian Achista, said at least 10 had been shot dead.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

Richard Ngumo, a paramedic told Reuters that more than 50 people had been wounded by gunfire. He was lifting two injured protesters into an ambulance outside parliament.

Parliament approved the finance bill, moving it through to a third reading by lawmakers. The next step is for the legislation to be sent to the president for signing. He can send it back to parliament if he has any objections.

(With inputs from agencies)