Kenya Reverss Course On Tax Increases After 22 People Die In Violent Protests

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In a dramatic turn of events, Kenyan President William Ruto announced on Wednesday the withdrawal of a contentious finance bill after violent protests left more than 20 people dead. The demonstrations, which started peacefully, were against the 2024 finance bill passed by parliament. The protests quickly escalated into violent clashes with police, leading to numerous casualties and extensive property damage. This blog will delve into the causes of the protests, the government’s response, and the broader implications for Kenya’s political and economic landscape.

The Finance Bill and Initial Reactions

The 2024 finance bill proposed significant tax hikes, which sparked immediate backlash from the public. Many Kenyans, already struggling with high inflation and a rising cost of living, saw the bill as an additional burden. President Ruto, who came to power in 2022 on a platform of economic reform and support for the impoverished, faced mounting criticism for the proposed tax increases.

Politicians passed the bill on Tuesday, catching Ruto’s administration off guard as protests gathered momentum across the country. The demonstrations were led primarily by Gen-Z activists, who utilized social media to organize and mobilize. The initial protests were peaceful, but tensions quickly escalated, culminating in violent clashes on Tuesday when police fired live bullets at protesters outside parliament.

The Violence and Casualties

The clashes between protesters and police resulted in a tragic loss of life and numerous injuries. According to the state-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, 22 people were killed, with 19 deaths occurring in the capital, Nairobi. The violence marked one of the deadliest days in Kenya’s recent history of civil unrest.

Roseline Odede, chairwoman of the commission, announced that an investigation would be launched into the deaths. Simon Kigondu, president of the Kenya Medical Association, expressed his shock at the level of violence, stating that he had never seen such brutality against unarmed civilians. Medical facilities in Nairobi were overwhelmed, with Kenyatta National Hospital treating 160 people for injuries ranging from soft tissue damage to bullet wounds.

Government Response and Reversal

In a press briefing on Wednesday, President Ruto made a significant reversal, announcing that he would not sign the 2024 finance bill and that it would be withdrawn. This decision marked a stark contrast to his late-night address the previous day, where he had labeled some protesters as “criminals.” Ruto’s about-turn came as he acknowledged the voice of the people, stating, “The people have spoken.”

Ruto also proposed an engagement with the youth of the nation, indicating a shift in his approach to governance and public dissent. However, prominent protester Hanifa Adan dismissed Ruto’s announcement as mere public relations, questioning whether it would bring back those who had died in the protests. She called for continued demonstrations, urging supporters to march peacefully and wear white in honor of the fallen.

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Economic Implications

The withdrawal of the finance bill has significant economic implications for Kenya. The bill’s tax hikes were intended to address a substantial budget shortfall and service the country’s massive debt, which stands at approximately 10 trillion shillings ($78 billion), or about 70 percent of the GDP. The government’s financial situation is precarious, and the withdrawal of the bill leaves a significant hole in funding for crucial development programs aimed at helping farmers, schoolteachers, and other sectors.

Ruto’s administration must now find alternative solutions to address the budget deficit without imposing further burdens on an already struggling population. The economic challenges facing Kenya are complex, and the government’s ability to navigate these issues will be critical in maintaining stability and fostering growth.

Social and Political Ramifications

The protests and the government’s response have highlighted deep-seated social and political tensions in Kenya. The Gen-Z-led demonstrations reflect a growing discontent among the youth, who are increasingly vocal about their frustrations with the government’s policies and actions. Social media has played a crucial role in organizing and amplifying these protests, providing a platform for voices that might otherwise be marginalized.

The violent response to the protests has drawn international attention and condemnation. The United States, among other nations, has called on Kenya to respect the right to peaceful protest. The heavy-handed tactics used by the police have raised concerns about human rights abuses and the government’s commitment to democratic principles.

Future Prospects

Kenya faces a challenging road ahead as it seeks to recover from the recent unrest and address the underlying issues that sparked the protests. President Ruto’s willingness to engage with the youth and listen to their concerns is a positive step, but it remains to be seen whether meaningful dialogue and reforms will follow.

The government must balance the need for economic stability with the demands of its citizens, ensuring that any future measures do not disproportionately impact the most vulnerable. Transparency, accountability, and inclusivity will be key in rebuilding trust and fostering a sense of unity.

Conclusion

The violent protests and subsequent withdrawal of the 2024 finance bill have marked a significant moment in Kenya’s political and economic history. The events have underscored the importance of responsive and inclusive governance, as well as the power of collective action in shaping policy. As Kenya moves forward, the lessons learned from this crisis will be crucial in building a more equitable and prosperous future for all its citizens.

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