Kenya’s President William Ruto has urged Members of Parliament to pass the Finance Bill 2024, despite widespread protests against new tax proposals.
He also called on Parliament to support funding for national development projects.
Protests dubbed “Occupy Parliament” resumed in major towns and cities across Kenya after a one-day pause.
In Nairobi, demonstrators clashed with police as they voiced opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which includes outrageous tax measures.
During the protests, police used teargas and water cannons to disperse crowds on the streets.
Many taxpayers in Kenya are against President Ruto’s plan to finance the 3.9 trillion shilling budget for the coming year.
Amnesty Kenya reported that over 283 protesters, including four journalists, were arrested during Tuesday’s demonstrations. The organisation condemned what it called excessive force, intimidation of civilians, and arbitrary arrests by authorities.
The Finance Bill is part of Kenya’s budget strategy aimed at revitalising the economy and generating an additional 346.7 billion shillings in revenue while addressing national debt concerns.
However, many Kenyans fear it will worsen their economic hardships, especially with the bill set to take effect on July 1.