Protesters on Tuesday,, flooded the streets of Nairobi, forcing the shutdown of parliament in opposition to a finance bill that includes taxes on cars and a 16 percent tax on bread.
During a press conference on the same day, Kuria Kimani, Chairman of the parliamentary finance committee, announced the reversal of the proposed taxes to ease nationwide tensions. President William Ruto and other lawmakers were also present at the conference.
Since taking office in 2022, President Ruto has introduced several taxes to address Kenya’s estimated $80 billion national debt, reduce borrowing, and increase revenue.
The latest tax increase ignited widespread protests, with Kenyans expressing frustration over the rising cost of living. Police responded by arresting over 200 protesters.
Amnesty International Kenya condemned the authorities’ actions in a statement shared on X, criticizing the harsh crackdown and arrests of peaceful demonstrators.
The human rights organization stated, “We are deeply alarmed and outraged by the mass arrests and detention of at least 283 peaceful protesters, including 263 citizens, 4 journalists, and 16 staff members observing the #OccupyParliament protest this morning. Two peaceful protesters have been injured in the process.
“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all arrested protesters and observers. We call on the police to uphold their duty to protect and respect the rights of Kenyan citizens to assemble peacefully.”
