Thousands of mostly young people demonstrated in Kenya's capital and across the country against new tax proposals by the administration of President William Ruto in its annual budget legislation. The protests brought Nairobi's central business district to a standstill as riot police used tear gas and water cannons on demonstrators who advanced towards parliament buildings where lawmakers debated the finance bill.
The protesters are demanding that lawmakers vote against the legislation, which they believe will be burdensome for salaried Kenyans, entrepreneurs, and consumers. The proposed taxes include a 2.75% levy on income for the national medical insurance plan, as well as increased taxes on vegetable oil and fuel, which could raise production costs and impact consumers.
While some amendments were made to the legislation, removing proposals such as a 16% value-added tax on bread and a new annual tax on motor vehicles, protesters argue that these changes are not sufficient. They are calling for legislators to reject the budget legislation entirely.
Protesters expressed concerns about the impact of additional taxes on their daily lives, with one young demonstrator highlighting the potential hardships it could bring to young people and their families. Business owners also voiced their struggles, citing the existing tax burden on their enterprises.
President Ruto, who acknowledged the protesters' constitutional right to demonstrate, emphasized the importance of democratic processes in decision-making. He stated that decisions would be made through established institutions, public participation, and legal avenues.
As lawmakers continued to debate the legislation, demonstrators attempted to breach security cordons around parliament buildings, carrying anti-government placards and chanting against President Ruto. Similar protests were reported in other parts of the country, including the president's hometown of Eldoret.
The right to protest is protected by the Kenyan constitution, with organizers required to notify the police. While past protests have sometimes led to clashes with law enforcement, the government has affirmed its commitment to upholding democratic principles and processes.
