13 Dead and Parliament Set Ablaze During Tax Protests
Thirteen protesters were killed amid demonstrations in Kenya, as a section of parliament was set on fire, according to medical reports. The protests, sparked by new tax proposals, intensified on Tuesday.
Crowds in Nairobi broke through police barriers, storming the parliament building and setting parts of it aflame.
In a televised address on Tuesday evening, President William Ruto announced that all necessary measures would be taken to “thwart any attempts by dangerous criminals to undermine the security and stability of our country.” The military has been deployed to suppress the unrest.
The protests began in opposition to a controversial finance bill proposing several tax increases. The situation escalated when lawmakers passed an amended version of the bill. Protesters invaded parliament, causing extensive damage and stealing the ceremonial mace, a symbol of legislative authority.
The Kenya Medical Association reported that police fired live ammunition, resulting in at least five deaths. A BBC reporter on the scene observed bodies lying in pools of blood on the street.
“How can you impose a 16% tax on bread? How can you tax sanitary pads?” questioned 24-year-old Derrick Mwathu in an interview with the BBC, highlighting public outrage over the bill’s proposals.
President Ruto condemned the “violence and anarchy,” insisting that those causing chaos under the guise of peaceful protest would face consequences.
Hundreds of individuals were injured, some by rubber bullets and tear gas. At a medical camp set up in a Nairobi cathedral, doctors were forced out by soldiers, and another temporary medical unit was established outside Kenyatta National Hospital.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta called for dialogue, reminding leaders that their power is derived from the people.
Despite the government revising some proposals in the bill, protesters are demanding its complete withdrawal.
“Our voice must be heard… We are the generation that is coming up, so they need to hear us,” said 23-year-old Maureen Awuor.
The protests have drawn international attention, with prominent African figures like Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine and South African politician Julius Malema expressing support for the demonstrators. Western nations have also expressed concern over the violence and urged for calm.
