Violent Protests Erupt in Kenya Over Controversial Tax Bill

On June 25, 2024, Kenya’s parliament became the center of chaos as thousands of protesters stormed the building to oppose a new finance bill that introduces unpopular tax proposals. The demonstrations turned deadly as police opened fire on the protesters, killing at least five people and wounding dozens of others. Sections of the parliament building were set ablaze during the unrest.

The finance bill, which was passed by lawmakers, includes tax increases on various daily items and services, such as internet data, fuel, bank transfers, and diapers. The Kenyan government argues that these changes are necessary to pay interest on national debt, reduce the budget deficit, and keep the government running. However, the bill has sparked widespread anger among the public, who are already struggling with economic hardships.

President William Ruto, who was elected in 2022, has been facing increasing criticism from the public. Youth who had voted for him with hopes of economic relief have taken to the streets to protest the pain of reforms. The protests have united a large part of the country, with some explicitly rejecting the tribal divisions that have torn Kenya apart in the past.

In response to the unrest, President Ruto deployed the military to crack down on what he called “treasonous” protesters. He vowed to quash the unrest “at whatever cost.” The Kenya Human Rights Commission shared a video of officers shooting at protesters and urged the president to issue an immediate order to “stop the killings.”

The protests have also drawn international attention. A statement by diplomats from 13 Western countries, including the United States, expressed shock at the scenes outside parliament and concern about the violence and abductions of protesters.

The unrest in Kenya comes at a time when hundreds of the country’s police officers have arrived in Haiti to lead a United Nations-backed multinational force against powerful gangs. The situation in Kenya highlights the challenges faced by the government in addressing the concerns of its citizens while maintaining security and stability.