Kenya's parliament building in Nairobi was engulfed in chaos on Tuesday as thousands of protesters rallied against a new finance bill, resulting in a direct challenge to the government. The demonstrations escalated as legislators fled the scene, and reports indicated at least three casualties outside the complex due to police firing.
The protesters were vehemently opposed to the controversial bill, which sought to introduce new taxes in a country grappling with long-standing grievances over the high cost of living. Despite police efforts to contain the situation, the protesters managed to breach security and enter parliament following the bill's passage by lawmakers. Subsequently, opposition legislators who voted against the bill were allowed to exit the besieged building unharmed.
Amid the turmoil, the office of the Nairobi governor, a member of the ruling party, was also set ablaze, prompting the deployment of police water cannons to douse the flames. The protesters' chants of 'We’re coming for every politician' underscored the intensity of the unrest.
Furthermore, clashes between police officers and protesters escalated, with live ammunition and tear gas canisters being used. In a distressing development, the Kenya Human Rights Commission shared footage of officers firing at demonstrators and pledged to hold them accountable for their actions. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives in similar protests the previous week.
Notably, reports emerged that 50 Kenyans, including the personal assistant of the Kenya Law Society President, were allegedly 'abducted' by individuals suspected to be police officers. Civil society groups raised concerns about the disappearance of individuals who had been vocal in the protests, with some reportedly taken from their residences, workplaces, and public areas ahead of the latest demonstrations.
As the situation unfolded, President William Ruto, who was away from the capital attending an African Union retreat, commended the youth for participating in the protests and expressed willingness to engage with them to address their grievances.
These events mark a significant escalation in public discontent and political tensions in Kenya, underscoring the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to the underlying issues driving the protests.
Source: AP Africa news
