Protests in Kenya Continue Despite President Ruto’s Tax Bill Announcement

Protesters took to the streets of Kenya once again on Thursday, with some calling for the resignation of President William Ruto. This was in response to the recent tax bill that sparked large-scale demonstrations, leading to nearly two dozen casualties.

The demonstrations in Nairobi were notably smaller than the previous day’s massive gathering, where tens of thousands of protesters converged in the city center while lawmakers deliberated and ultimately passed the controversial legislation. The situation escalated into violence as individuals breached the building, causing damage, while authorities deployed tear gas and bullets, resulting in at least 23 fatalities and over 300 injuries, according to human rights organizations.

Thursday witnessed a heightened security presence in the capital, with police and military personnel stationed around Parliament, the president’s residence, and key downtown areas. Despite the central business district remaining closed off, smaller groups of protesters, holding white roses, were met with police intervention.

While some activists and opposition figures advised against advancing towards the president’s residence to avoid further bloodshed, others remained resolute in their demand for President Ruto’s resignation. The recent violent incidents, including killings, shootings, and abductions of anti-tax increase demonstrators, have only fueled their determination.

“We will persist in these streets until Ruto steps down,” asserted 25-year-old protester John Kimani in Nairobi. “No amount of intimidation will sway us.”