Nationwide protests against President William Ruto’s proposed tax increases turned violent on Tuesday, resulting in at least 17 deaths and over 200 injuries.
Demonstrators, driven by outrage over the government’s plan to introduce new taxes, clashed with police, leading to a brutal crackdown and the deployment of military forces.
The protests have been sparked by Ruto’s proposal to generate an additional 302 billion shillings ($2.3 billion) in the upcoming budget year starting July 1. Particularly contentious were taxes on essential items like bread and sanitary pads, which have drawn widespread public ire. Despite the government’s decision to retract some of the more controversial levies, the overall tax plan has faced staunch opposition.
The situation escalated dramatically when protesters stormed the parliament building in Nairobi, setting parts of it ablaze. Police responded with live ammunition, resulting in numerous casualties. Over 200 people have been injured, and at least 100 arrests have been made, including protesters, journalists, and human rights observers.
President Ruto condemned the protests as “treasonous” in a televised address, pledging to treat any threat to national security as an existential danger. “Accordingly, I assure Kenyans that we shall provide a full, effective, and expeditious response to today’s treasonous events,” Ruto stated.
Simon Kigondu, president of the Kenya Medical Association, reported that the figure of 13 deaths was “not the final number,” indicating the potential for higher casualties. Amnesty International confirmed that at least 31 people were injured, including 13 who were shot with live bullets.
“We are defending our future against this finance bill. The tax is too high,” said Derick Nandwa, a 20-year-old computer science student participating in the protests. “We don’t want amendments. We reject it fully.”
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta urged dialogue, emphasizing that Kenya’s leaders should “know that power and authority is donated to them by the people.”
The protests have spread to more than 30 of Kenya’s 47 counties, highlighting widespread discontent with the government’s economic policies amid rising food prices and high youth unemployment. Human rights organizations, religious leaders, and international bodies, including the United Nations, have condemned the excessive use of force by security personnel and called for restraint on all sides.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern, stating he was “deeply saddened by the reports of deaths and injuries – including of journalists and medical personnel – connected to protests and street demonstrations in Kenya.” He urged Kenyan authorities to “exercise restraint” and called for all demonstrations to be peaceful.
As tensions remain high, the government faces mounting pressure to address public grievances while managing the country’s economic challenges. The international community continues to watch closely, urging peaceful dialogue and resolution.
