Protests Erupt in Kenya Over Tax Hikes, Resulting in Casualties and Arrests
Tragedy struck Kenya on Thursday as one individual lost their life and more than 200 others sustained injuries during countrywide protests aimed at opposing a governmental tax proposal that seeks to raise $2.7 billion. This disturbing information comes from a coalition of human rights organizations and an independent police watchdog.
In Nairobi, the capital city, law enforcement unleashed tear gas and water cannons to scatter the crowds of protesters. This collaboration, featuring Amnesty International and the Kenya Medical Association, issued a statement detailing these police actions on Thursday evening.
The evidence of spent cartridges indicated the potential use of live ammunition, further highlighting the severity of the situation. The report also noted over 100 arrests of demonstrators in various regions of Kenya.
On Friday, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed the unfortunate death of a man, reportedly due to a police shooting, as well as severe injuries endured by other protesters, including members of the police force.
A police report reviewed by Reuters stated that the 29-year-old victim succumbed to injuries sustained in his thigh while receiving treatment late Thursday night. However, it did not elaborate on how the wound occurred.
Nairobi County Police Commander Adamson Bungei has remained unresponsive to phone inquiries regarding the incidents.
Human rights advocates applauded the thousands of young demonstrators for their peaceful protest approach, stating, “They showed commendable restraint and dignity despite provocations from law enforcement.”
Protesters assert that the government must entirely abandon the finance bill, arguing it would severely strain the economy and escalate living costs for Kenyans who are already grappling with financial hardships.
Contrarily, the International Monetary Fund argues that raising revenue is imperative for the government to mitigate its budget deficit and reliance on loans.
This week, there were slight changes in government stance, as President William Ruto expressed support for scrapping certain proposed taxes on essentials like vehicle ownership, bread, cooking oil, and financial transactions.
Despite widespread unrest that erupted in 19 of Kenya’s 47 counties, lawmakers proceeded to pass the finance bill in its second reading on Thursday, paving the way for the contentious tax measures to advance for further consideration.
Lawmakers are scheduled to convene on Tuesday to vote on the potential modifications to the bill. The parliament’s budget committee warns these changes could lead to a staggering shortfall of 200 billion Kenyan shillings (approximately $1.56 billion) in the 2024/25 budget, compelling the government to implement spending cuts.
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