In a dramatic escalation of civil unrest, thousands of protesters stormed Kenya’s Parliament on Tuesday to voice their opposition to proposed tax increases. The situation rapidly turned violent, with part of the parliamentary building set ablaze, forcing lawmakers to flee. This unrest has resulted in multiple fatalities and has prompted a stern response from the government.
Unprecedented Violence
This protest marks the most direct attack on the Kenyan government in decades. Eyewitnesses and journalists reported seeing at least three bodies outside the parliament complex, with medical workers confirming five deaths. Police fired live ammunition to disperse the crowd, exacerbating the violence that quickly spread to other cities.
Protesters' Demands
The core demand of the protesters is for lawmakers to reject the proposed finance bill, which introduces new taxes. These taxes come amidst growing frustrations over the rising cost of living in East Africa’s economic hub. Young voters, who had previously supported President William Ruto for his promises of economic relief, have now taken to the streets to express their discontent with the new reforms.
Government's Harsh Response
President William Ruto, addressing the nation, labeled the protests as treasonous and vowed to quash the unrest at any cost. “Today’s events mark a critical turning point on how we respond to threats to our national security. It was treasonous. I will quash the unrest at whatever cost,” he said. The defense minister confirmed that the military had been deployed to support police during this security emergency.
According to the Kenya Medical Association, at least five people were shot dead, and more than 30 were injured, many with live bullets. The police’s use of live ammunition and tear gas against protesters has drawn significant criticism. One of the deceased was draped in a Kenyan flag, symbolizing the deep national impact of the protests.
Internet Disruption and Media Control
In an attempt to control the situation, internet services in Kenya were noticeably slowed down, a move that NetBlocks identified as a major disruption. This measure appears aimed at hindering the protesters’ ability to communicate and organize. Additionally, media outlets reported receiving threats from authorities to shut down their coverage of the protests.
International and Domestic Reactions
The international community has reacted with concern. The United States urged the Kenyan government to exercise restraint, while the United Nations emphasized the need to uphold the rights of peaceful protesters. Thirteen Western countries, including the US, expressed shock over the violence and the abductions of protesters.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission released videos showing police shooting at protesters and called on President Ruto to halt the killings. Opposition to the finance bill has united various segments of Kenyan society, overcoming the tribal divisions that have historically divided the nation. Many former supporters of President Ruto now feel betrayed by his policies.
Advisory for Indian Citizens
The Indian high commission in Nairobi issued an advisory, urging Indian citizens in Kenya to exercise utmost caution, restrict non-essential movement, and avoid areas affected by the protests. Approximately 20,000 Indians currently reside in Kenya, highlighting the broader international concern over the ongoing violence.
Amidst the chaos, Catholic bishops have urged the police to refrain from using force against protesters and have called on the government to listen to the citizens’ grievances regarding the new taxes. The bishops stressed that the country is suffering, and families are struggling due to the proposed financial reforms.
The protests in Kenya signify a critical juncture in the nation’s political and economic landscape. As the government deals with the aftermath, there is an urgent need for dialogue and reconsideration of the controversial finance bill. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Kenya can navigate this period of intense civil unrest and emerge with a more unified and responsive government.
