In Nairobi, Kenya, tensions have escalated sharply after protests erupted last week against tax increases. Protesters broke through barricades and entered the parliament complex, throwing stones at police and moving towards the parliament building where lawmakers were discussing a controversial bill proposing tax increases. Police responded with rubber bullets and tear gas, resulting in injuries and casualties.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) reported that one protester was shot and killed by police, while other human rights observers noted an increased use of live ammunition by the National Police Service. There were also reports of protesters being kidnapped by plainclothes police at night. The protests have highlighted the anger over Kenya’s cost of living crisis and the government’s effort to increase taxes to fill budget gaps.
Despite the government agreeing to cancel some tax increases, there are still plans to raise fuel prices and export taxes, which critics say will further burden Kenyans already struggling with inflation. The protests have called for respect of protesters’ rights to assemble and demanded the release of those arrested by authorities. The demonstrations in Kenya have exposed the economic challenges faced by many citizens and the need for solutions that address the root causes of the crisis.
