Kenya's National Assembly Passes Controversial Finance Bill Amid Protests. President Ruto urges the bill's passage despite amendments removing taxes on essential goods. Protests turn violent in Nairobi, with casualties reported. State vows strong response as tensions escalate.
Kenya's national assembly has passed the contentious finance bill amidst widespread public dissent, with lawmakers voting 195 in favor and 106 against, and no abstentions recorded. President William Ruto had pushed for the bill's passage last week amid escalating protests nationwide. Amendments to the bill removed controversial taxes on essential items such as bread, financial services, and motor vehicles. Still, they introduced higher levies, including a 2.5 percent railway development levy and a 3.5 percent import declaration fee.
The bill now awaits President Ruto's assent after its approval by parliament. Initially open to dialogue with protesting youths, Ruto condemned the protests on Tuesday, accusing them of being hijacked by what he termed as "dangerous elements." He emphasized the need to distinguish between democratic expression and criminal activity, pledging a robust state response.
The protests turned violent in Nairobi, resulting in multiple fatalities as police used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse demonstrators. Disturbingly, reports also emerged of police assaulting and arresting paramedics aiding injured protesters, highlighting escalating tensions and concerns over human rights violations amidst the political turmoil.
