Protesters Set Parliament Ablaze: At Least Five Lose Life in Violent Protests Against Tax Hikes in Kenya

Violent clashes erupted in Nairobi on Tuesday June 25, 2024 as protests against new tax legislation turned deadly, with at least five demonstrators reportedly killed by police gunfire. The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into chaos outside Kenya’s parliament, where protesters breached security and set parts of the building ablaze.

The unrest follows the passage of a contentious finance bill aimed at increasing tax revenues by $2.7 billion to alleviate Kenya’s mounting debt crisis. The legislation, which has sparked nationwide outrage, drew demonstrators from various parts of the country demanding its withdrawal.

The situation deteriorated rapidly as police attempted to disperse crowds with tear gas and water cannons, failing to deter protesters who surged towards the parliament compound. In response, authorities resorted to live ammunition, leading to casualties among the demonstrators. Witnesses and paramedics on the scene confirmed the deaths and treated numerous others for injuries sustained during the clashes.

With many lamenting that the tax is a tragic escalation and the only efforts to make their voices heard, demanding accountability from the leaders who seem deaf to their struggles, they resorted to protest.

The protests, characterized by chants calling for President William Ruto’s resignation, reflect widespread discontent over economic hardships exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, droughts, and currency depreciation. Despite government concessions to exclude certain essential items from new taxes, public discontent persists.

In Nairobi’s Central Business District and other urban centers like Eldoret and Mombasa, similar demonstrations unfolded, underscoring the depth of public anger. Youth-led and lacking a centralized leadership, the protests signify a growing disillusionment with traditional political channels and a push for direct action.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga condemned the violence, urging dialogue and the immediate withdrawal of the finance bill. “The government must heed the calls of its people,” he stated, criticizing the heavy-handed police response.

The parliament, after passing the bill, has forwarded it to President Ruto for final approval. The outcome hinges on whether he will sign it into law or send it back to parliament amid the escalating crisis.

As the situation remains tense, with sporadic clashes reported across the nation, Kenya braces for further unrest amid calls for political change and economic reform.