Kenyan police deployed tear gas and detained over a dozen demonstrators as hundreds gathered near parliament to protest against new tax hikes.
Clad in black, the protesters marched through Nairobi’s business district, denouncing the government’s move to raise 346.7 billion shillings ($2.7 billion) in an effort to reduce reliance on external borrowing. Critics argue the tax hikes exacerbate the country’s cost-of-living crisis.
Signs bearing messages against the taxes and references to President William Ruto as the biblical tax collector Zacchaeus highlighted protester grievances. Key concerns included proposed taxes on motor vehicles and the reintroduction of VAT on bread.
Despite widespread opposition, the bill is anticipated to pass given Ruto’s significant parliamentary support.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission called on police to halt the arrests, underscoring the constitutional right to protest. Ruto’s administration, despite its pledges to revive the economy, has faced backlash over previous tax increases and contributions, sparking earlier protests and clashes.
Kenya, known for its economic dynamism, grapples with high inflation and widespread poverty amidst these economic policies.