Kenyan President William Ruto rejects a contentious finance bill and returns it to parliament for amendments. The bill sparked nationwide protests, resulting in 23 deaths. Ruto proposes changes to address public concerns. He will address the nation at 1300 GMT.
Kenyan President William Ruto has declined to sign a controversial finance bill and has returned it to parliament for amendments, according to local media reports from The Star newspaper and KTN News. The bill, which aimed to raise an additional $2.7 billion through tax hikes, had provoked widespread protests across the country.
On Tuesday, violent clashes erupted as police opened fire on crowds protesting outside parliament. Demonstrators later breached the parliament buildings just minutes after lawmakers approved the tax increases. The unrest resulted in at least 23 deaths and numerous injuries, marking one of the deadliest episodes of civil unrest in recent years.
President Ruto, who has been in office for nearly two years, is facing his most significant political crisis to date. The Star newspaper reported that sources within Ruto's office indicated the president had suggested a series of amendments for parliament to consider. These proposed changes are expected to address the contentious aspects of the bill that sparked the protests.
Despite the government's attempts to quell the unrest, protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations against the proposed tax hikes. The ongoing conflict highlights the deepening dissatisfaction with Ruto's administration and the economic hardships faced by many Kenyans.
President Ruto is scheduled to address the nation at 1300 GMT, where he is expected to elaborate on his decision and the proposed amendments. The situation remains tense as the country awaits further developments.
