Nairobi, Kenya – Violent clashes erupted in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, as protests against a new tax proposal turned deadly. According to reports from human rights groups, at least five people were killed when police opened fire on unarmed protesters after a group stormed into Kenya’s Parliament and set part of the building on fire. The protests were fueled by discontent over tax hikes and a new tax bill pushed through by President William Ruto’s ruling party.
The situation escalated as more protesters breached the heavily fortified Parliament buildings in Nairobi’s city center, resulting in gunshots being heard and an unconfirmed number of casualties. The protests, which have been ongoing for several days, have drawn attention to the growing unrest among the Kenyan middle class over the government’s economic policies.
In response to the mounting protests, Kenya’s defense secretary ordered the deployment of army troops to support the National Police Service in handling the demonstrations. The unrest has been marked by violent confrontations between protesters and security forces, with reports of injuries and deaths continuing to emerge.
The proposed legislation, known as Finance Bill 2024, seeks to implement increases in taxable incomes, excise duties, and value-added taxes, while introducing new income tax categories to the country’s finance laws. The bill has faced strong opposition from various groups, leading to widespread protests and a crackdown by authorities.
As tensions escalate, rights groups have reported a significant number of injuries among protesters, with some fatalities recorded. The protests, largely driven by young people, have underscored a growing sense of frustration and disillusionment with the government’s economic policies.
Amid the unrest, the U.S. National Security Council issued a statement condemning the violence and urging for calm. The protests have also sparked international concern, with calls for dialogue and a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
The clashes in Nairobi have brought renewed attention to allegations of human rights violations in Kenya, raising concerns about the handling of dissent and protests in the country. As the situation continues to unfold, there are calls for accountability and transparency in addressing the underlying issues fueling the unrest.