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Eight Killed as Protests Erupt Across Kenya, Parliament Stormed Over Proposed Tax Hikes

Jun 25, 2024, 10:59 AM

Protests have erupted across Kenya in response to the government's proposed Finance Bill 2024, which aims to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes to reduce the budget deficit. Demonstrators, primarily young Kenyans, have taken to the streets in various cities, including the capital Nairobi, to express their opposition to the tax hikes. The protests, which began on June 20, have turned violent, with police using tear gas, water cannons, mounted police, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. At least eight people have been killed, over 200 injured, and more than 100 arrested. The unrest escalated on June 25 as protesters stormed the parliament building, setting parts of it on fire. The Finance Bill, which includes taxes on essential items like sanitary pads and bread, has sparked widespread anger among the population, who fear it will exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis. Despite some proposed changes being scaled back by President William Ruto, the bill has been passed by parliament, further fueling the protests.