Kenyan President Withdraws Tax Hike Proposal Following Deadly Protests

Written by Kathrine Frich

Jun.26 - 2024 6:04 PM CET

World
Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Shutterstock
kenya's President William Ruto has withdrawn a controversial tax hike proposal

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Protests Turn Deadly

According to Aftonbladet kenya's President William Ruto has withdrawn a controversial tax hike proposal after a demonstration on Tuesday resulted in the deaths of over 20 people.

"The people have spoken," President Ruto said during a press conference. The decision came in response to widespread public outrage and violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement.

Heavy Police Presence in Nairobi

From Wednesday morning, a heavy police presence was seen around the parliament building in Nairobi. According to an AFP reporter, the air was still thick with the remnants of tear gas.

Authorities were clearing debris from the streets following the violent clashes. Key government buildings, including the parliament, city hall, and the Supreme Court, were cordoned off to prevent further unrest.

Protests Escalate

On Tuesday, thousands of protesters, predominantly students, broke through police barricades and stormed the parliament building, setting it on fire.

The government deployed the military in the evening to support the police in restoring order. The events were broadcast live on television, capturing the intense confrontations.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), a government-funded body, reported at least 22 fatalities and promised a thorough investigation into the incidents.