Protests Erupt in Nairobi Over Tax Policies

On Tuesday morning, Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, witnessed protests against the government. Local media showed anti-riot police using tear gas to disperse people protesting against tax policies and other governance issues.

President Ruto’s Response

Kenyan President William Ruto has called for talks but has also stated that he will not sign the 2024 Finance Bill, which proposed tax hikes. He announced the formation of a National Multi-Sectoral Forum (NMSF) to address the concerns of the youth, who have been leading the protests.

Protesters’ Demands

The youth, represented by various professional bodies and civil society groups, have demanded action against public theft, a bloated cabinet, and extra-judicial killings. They emphasized that many issues require decisive executive action rather than policy dialogue.

Violence and Arrests

Protesters reported that police had killed 24 people and injured 361 others. Additionally, 627 people were arrested, and 32 were abducted, with some still missing. Medical practitioners and lawyers have also faced harassment and arrests.

KNCHR’s Findings

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported that 39 people have died and 361 have been injured in the protests. The KNCHR condemned the excessive force used by the police and the violent acts by some protesters.

President Ruto’s Statement

In a televised interview, President Ruto stated that 19 people had died in the protests and pledged an investigation into the deaths. He insisted that he did not have ‘blood on my hands.’