Protesters across Kenya are gearing up for nationwide demonstrations on Tuesday against recent tax hikes. This youth-led movement, which gained momentum online, has quickly become a significant challenge for the government.
The protests target a finance bill intended to raise $2.7 billion in taxes to address Kenya’s rising public debt. President William Ruto, elected nearly two years ago on a platform supporting the working poor, now faces difficulties fulfilling his promises due to high debt levels, with 37% of annual revenue going to interest payments.
Ruto is balancing demands from lenders like the International Monetary Fund, which urges deficit cuts, against public discontent over inflation and last year’s tax increases.
Last week’s protests saw thousands in Nairobi and other cities, with largely peaceful demonstrations met by police using tear gas and water cannons, resulting in one fatality.
Despite some concessions, such as dropping new taxes on essentials like bread and cooking oil, protesters demand the complete scrapping of the bill.
Lawmakers will debate amendments on Tuesday, which, if passed, could leave a $1.56 billion gap in the 2024/25 budget, forcing spending cuts or alternative tax hikes.
Political analysts note the unique challenge these protests pose for Ruto, as they lack an official leader who can be negotiated with. The organic nature of the movement, driven by young Kenyans, has broadened its demands, with some now calling for Ruto’s resignation.