Tax Protest Turns Deadly in Kenya: 10 Fatalities, 50 Injured

Kenya Police Kill 10, Injure 50 at Anti-Tax Protest

Kenyan police fire on anti-tax protesters, killing 10 and injuring 50, as demonstrations against the Finance Bill turn violent. Protesters storm parliament, vandalize property, and clash with police, despite government claims of public engagement and adjustments to the bill.

Kenyan police opened fire on demonstrators against the budget law.In Nairobi, there were at least ten fatalities and close to fifty injuries.

Kenyan demonstrators broke over the barriers surrounding the parliament and invaded the building where members were discussing tax hike measures that have infuriated the nation.

According to paramedic Vivian Achista, outside Kenya's parliament, at least ten protestors were slain by Kenyan police, and about fifty more were hurt.

A 24-year-old protester had been shot by police and died earlier.

After attempts to break up crowds with water cannons and tear gas, the use of live bullets was used.

The controversial Finance Bill, which would impose taxes on bread, vehicles, phones, and other commodities, was met with fierce opposition from demonstrators who took to the streets.

On Tuesday, June 25, protestors eventually gained entry inside Kenya's parliament despite police attacks and crackdowns.

In the midst of widespread demonstrations against the Finance Bill, videos emerged depicting demonstrators damaging property in parliament, burning cars before the Kenyan Supreme Court, and City Hall on fire.

Amnesty International condemned William Ruto's government earlier on Tuesday, June 25, for kidnapping civilians covertly during the demonstrations against the divisive Finance Bill.

“Twelve abductions have taken place over the last five days, with an alarming surge last night,” the human rights organization stated.

Kenyans have continued to demonstrate in the streets against the Finance Bill, even after the parliament announced changes to it.

“We have had a robust public engagement on the proposed Finance Bill. We have adjusted the document accordingly. We are glad we are having conversations about issues and our institutions are working. This is how democracies function.” Ruto tweeted.

Ruto has enacted a number of taxes since taking office in 2022 with the intention of tackling Kenya's estimated $80 billion national debt, lowering borrowing, and increasing revenue collection.