📷 Image Credits: NDTV
The capital Nairobi was engulfed in chaos as police opened fire on protesters demonstrating against proposed tax hikes in Kenya. At least 22 people were reported dead, with 19 fatalities in the capital alone, according to a state-funded rights watchdog. The protests were triggered by the 2024 finance bill, which was passed by politicians despite widespread opposition. President William Ruto made a surprising U-turn in response to the violent clashes, announcing the withdrawal of the contentious bill.
Ruto’s administration was caught off guard by the escalating demonstrations led by Gen-Z protesters, as police resorted to live bullets, resulting in deadly clashes outside parliament. Following the public outcry, Ruto stated that he would engage with the youth in a marked shift from his previous stance labeling protesters as ‘criminals’. Despite his announcement, protesters remained skeptical, calling it a public relations move.
The withdrawal of the finance bill leaves a significant gap in funding for development programs aimed at helping marginalized groups, including farmers and schoolteachers. The tax increases were initially proposed to address Kenya’s massive debt, but the move faced backlash from citizens already struggling with a high cost of living. The protests have reignited concerns over rising unemployment and economic challenges facing Kenyans, as young people demand better living conditions and sustainable policies from the government. International observers, including the US embassy, have called for restraint and respect for the right to peaceful protest amidst the ongoing unrest.
