(SQAUK) NAIROBI — In a dramatic and violent turn of events, Kenyan police forcefully fired live rounds at protestors outside the Parliament building, which had been torched during intense demonstrations against the new Finance Bill 2024. The protests erupted in Nairobi, driven by widespread opposition to the proposed Eco Levy and other tax hikes embedded within the bill.
The Finance Bill, designed to increase government revenue and decrease national debt, has been met with strong opposition from the public. They argue that it unfairly places a heavy financial burden on regular citizens already struggling with high living expenses. Of particular controversy is the proposed Eco Levy, which would impose significant taxes on everyday items such as plastics, electronics, and hygiene products.
Tensions escalated as protesters stormed the Parliament, setting parts of the building ablaze. The chaotic scene saw police respond with tear gas, batons, and live ammunition to disperse the crowds. Reports indicate that dozens of protesters were arrested, with Amnesty Kenya calling for the immediate release of detained journalists and rights observers.
Nairobi’s central business district turned into a battleground, with running skirmishes between the police and protestors. “No group had been granted permission to protest, and the police response was necessary to maintain order,” stated Nairobi Police Commander Adamson Bungei.
The public’s response to the Finance Bill and the government’s forceful reaction has sparked outrage and solidarity with the protestors. Raila Odinga, the opposition leader, criticized the bill and urged lawmakers to remove provisions that would harm the economically vulnerable.
Environmentalists and government officials are divided on the Eco Levy. Advocates argue it is necessary to curb pollution and promote sustainability, while critics, including major manufacturers, warn it could lead to significant price hikes and job losses.
Despite criticism, the government has stood by the Finance Bill, stating that it is essential for maintaining economic stability. The Ministry of Environment has emphasized that the Eco Levy aims to improve waste management and minimize pollution-related public health risks. However, ongoing protests have led lawmakers to contemplate making amendments, which could potentially alleviate some of the most controversial tax measures.
The situation in Kenya is tense as the nation deals with the implications of the Finance Bill. Violent clashes and arson at the Parliament serve as stark reminders of the public’s frustration with economic policies they perceive as unfair. As the government seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with social equity, the voices from the streets of Nairobi echo an apparent demand for more just and sustainable solutions.
