In response to widespread protests and public outcry, Kenyan authorities have reversed several proposed taxes outlined in the new finance bill. Demonstrators took to the streets of Nairobi, effectively shutting down parliament recently to oppose the bill, which included controversial taxes such as a 16 percent levy on bread and taxes on cars.
During a press conference, Kuria Kimani, Chairman of the Parliament Finance Committee, announced the reversal of the contentious taxes to alleviate the growing tensions in the country. President William Ruto and other lawmakers were present at the conference.
President Ruto has introduced several new taxes since taking office in 2022, aiming to address Kenya’s substantial national debt, estimated at around $80 billion, reduce borrowing, and increase revenue. However, the latest tax hikes ignited widespread protests as Kenyans grappled with the high cost of living. In response, police arrested over 200 protesters, leading to further unrest.
Amnesty International Kenya condemned the police’s heavy-handed response and the mass arrests. In a statement circulated on X (formerly Twitter), the human rights organization expressed deep alarm and outrage over the detention of at least 283 peaceful protesters, including 263 citizens, four journalists, and 16 staff members observing the #OccupyParliament protest. Two protesters were injured during the demonstrations.
“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all arrested protesters and observers,” the statement read. “We call on the police to uphold their duty to protect and respect the rights of Kenyan citizens to assemble peacefully.”