In response to a series of violent anti-tax protests across Kenya, President William Ruto has committed to a “full” governmental response to restore order. The unrest, sparked by opposition to proposed tax hikes, saw protesters clashing with police, storming the Parliament building, and setting it partially ablaze. Despite the public outcry and demands to scrap the controversial finance bill, which includes increased taxes on essential goods and services, the Kenyan Parliament proceeded to vote it through. The government asserts that these tax increases are crucial for funding public services without increasing national debt.
- Kenyan President William Ruto pledges a comprehensive response following violent protests against tax increases.
- Protesters stormed Parliament, setting part of it on fire and stealing the ceremonial mace.
- Violence erupted across various parts of Kenya, including Kisumu, Mombasa, and Eldoret, with the capital experiencing significant unrest.
- Law enforcement used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds targeting government buildings.
- The military has been deployed to assist in restoring order.
- The finance bill proposes increased levies on a range of products and services, sparking widespread opposition.
- Despite a partial rollback on some tax increases, such as those on bread and cooking oil, demonstrators are demanding the complete withdrawal of the bill.
- The government maintains that the tax hikes are necessary to fund public services without accruing more debt.
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