Kenya experienced violent street demonstrations on Tuesday that resulted in at least 23 deaths caused by police shootings. The National Assembly was partially destroyed in the protests, with legislators escaping through underground tunnels. President William Ruto condemned the protests as a betrayal. The demonstrations were sparked by a bill passed by the National Assembly that included tax increases, leading to widespread discontent and calls for the bill to be vetoed.
Reports of police brutality, including the use of live ammunition against civilians and the detention of paramedics, fueled the anger of the protesters. President Ruto initially described the events as a threat to national security but later announced that he would not sign the controversial bill. He acknowledged the loss of life and damage caused by the protests and expressed condolences to the families of the victims. International organizations reported a higher death toll from the police crackdown on the protests.
The Finance Bill 2024, which aimed to raise domestic revenue through various taxes and fees, was the main trigger for the protests. President Ruto defended the bill as necessary to address the national debt and budget deficit, but the public outcry forced him to backtrack on his decision. The protests, led by young people and organized through social networks, spread across the country and called for the resignation of President Ruto.
Despite his anti-establishment rhetoric during his campaign, President Ruto faced criticism for implementing unpopular policies and extravagant spending. The protests highlighted growing dissatisfaction with the government’s economic policies and leadership. The protests evolved into a demand for change and accountability in Kenya’s political system, with citizens taking to the streets to express their frustration and demand transparency and accountability from their leaders.