Kenya Braces for More Protests Over Controversial Tax Bill
Kenyans are set to take to the streets on Thursday in nationwide protests over a controversial tax bill. This bill, known as the Finance Bill 2024, has caused widespread discontent since it was first introduced in Parliament in May. The new bill proposes increasing various taxes and levies, which has been met with opposition across the country.
On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters gathered in Kenya's capital, Nairobi. Armed police responded by lobbing tear gas canisters and firing water cannons at the demonstrators in the Central Business District. At least 283 protesters were arrested, including four journalists. Amnesty Kenya told ABC News they are "alarmed and outraged" by the "use of excessive force," "intimidation of civilians" and arbitrary arrests.
Stella Njoki, a 22-year-old student who joined the protests, said: "Police were firing teargas at us, and we had to run into a nearby café to seek shelter. But it was imperative we made our voice heard as this is our future, our Kenya, and it is us who will be paying this price."
Protesters chanted anti-government slogans while Members of Parliament debated the Finance Bill 2024 in downtown Nairobi on June 18, 2024.
The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi issued a demonstration alert for U.S. citizens. Though events were intended to be peaceful, the embassy warned they can "turn violent" at any moment, urging citizens to "remain vigilant" and avoid large gatherings.
The Finance Bill was introduced as part of Kenya's budget for the next year. Finance Minister Njuguna Ndung'u said the budget aims to "revitalize" Kenya's economy, raise an additional 346.7 billion Kenya shillings in revenue, and help alleviate debt.
People ran to take cover after tear gas fired by Kenya police officers exploded next to them during the demonstrations.
Kenyans fear the bill, proposed to take effect on July 1, will increase the economic burden for those already struggling with the cost of living.
The Media Council of Kenya condemned the "arbitrary arrests and attacks on journalists" covering the protests. They expressed "dismay" that journalists were harassed despite being well identified in press jackets and badges.
In a statement, the President's Office announced amendments to the Finance Bill considering the views of the public and stakeholders during participation sessions.
Among the amendments are the scrapping of a proposed 16% VAT on bread, taxes on foreign exchange transactions, financial services, and a 2.5% Motor Vehicle tax.
President Ruto said, "We are going to end up with a product in Parliament that came from the Executive and has been interrogated by the Legislature. Through public participation, the people of Kenya have had a say."
