At least one dead, 200 injuries and more than 100 apprehended.
Nationwide protests erupted in Kenya against proposed government tax hikes, resulting in over 200 injuries and more than 100 arrests. According to rights groups including Amnesty International, riot police used tear gas, water cannon, and rubber bullets to disperse demonstrators, leading to injuries such as soft tissue damage and tear gas inhalation.
In Nairobi, six protesters were hit by cars while fleeing from police, and one person reportedly died from a gunshot wound.
The protests, spreading across 19 of Kenya’s 47 counties, oppose budget proposals aiming to raise $2.7 billion in taxes. Proposed measures include a 2.75% income levy for national medical insurance and increased taxes on vegetable oil and fuel, which protesters argue will burden consumers and businesses.
Despite some amendments, such as the removal of a 16% value-added tax on bread and a new annual motor vehicle tax, demonstrators demand a complete rejection of the legislation.
The National Police Service has been urged to avoid excessive force. The finance bill passed its second reading in parliament and awaits a third and final reading. The legislation must be enacted by June 30.