In a significant display of opposition against a new finance bill, a portion of Kenya’s parliament building was set ablaze by thousands of protesters, resulting in legislators fleeing the scene.
This marked one of the most direct challenges to the government in decades. Journalists witnessed the aftermath of the chaos, with at least three bodies outside the complex where police had resorted to opening fire.
The protesters had been vehemently demanding that legislators reject the controversial bill, which aimed to impose additional taxes in a country already burdened by the high cost of living. Despite attempts by the police to prevent their entry, the protesters managed to outmaneuver them and infiltrate the parliament shortly after the bill was passed.
Lawmakers sought refuge by escaping through a tunnel, while the protesters allowed opposition legislators who had voted against the bill to safely exit the besieged building.
The office of the Nairobi governor, a member of the ruling party, was also engulfed in flames, prompting the use of police water cannons to extinguish the fire.
Amidst the chaos, the protesters could be heard shouting their determination to hold every politician accountable. In response to the protests, the police resorted to firing live ammunition and tear-gas canisters at the demonstrators seeking medical treatment at a nearby church. The Kenya Human Rights Commission condemned the actions of the officers and vowed to ensure they face consequences for their actions.
Tragically, two individuals had already lost their lives in similar protests the previous week. The President of the Kenya Law Society, Faith Odhiambo, expressed concern over the “abduction” of 50 Kenyans, including her personal assistant, allegedly by individuals believed to be police officers.
Civil society groups reported that those who had gone missing were individuals who had been vocal in their support of the demonstrations and were taken from their homes, workplaces, and public spaces prior to the protests.
The police officials were unavailable for immediate comment, while the Parliament Speaker had instructed the inspector general of police to provide information regarding the whereabouts of those allegedly abducted, as claimed by the opposition.
President William Ruto had temporarily left the capital to participate in an African Union retreat. During his absence, he expressed his admiration for the young individuals who actively fulfilled their democratic responsibility and assured them of his commitment to addressing their issues by actively involving them in the decision-making process.
