At least 5 Kenyan killed during the angry anti-Taxes protests as mobs clashed with police over new taxes imposed under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) guidelines. Demonstrations escalated into violence, resulting in fires and chaos around the legislative building.
The streets of Nairobi witnessed unprecedented turmoil as thousands of Kenyans took to the streets to protest the newly implemented tax policies advised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The situation spiraled out of control when demonstrators set fire to parts of the Kenyan Parliament, symbolizing their vehement opposition to the stringent economic measures.
The controversial taxes, which include increases in value-added tax (VAT) and new levies on essential goods, were enacted as part of an IMF-backed economic reform package aimed at stabilizing Kenya’s economy. However, the public has viewed these measures as punitive, exacerbating the already high cost of living.
The protests targeted Kenya’s president, William Ruto who has become deeply unpopular at home over tax hikes that have furious the middle class. His ruling party pushed through a new tax bill Tuesday as the protests mounted.
Riot police were deployed in full force, using tear gas and water cannons in an attempt to disperse the crowds. Despite these efforts, the protesters remained resolute, some engaging in skirmishes with the police, leading to several injuries on both sides.
Kenya’s defense secretary, Aden Duale, ordered the deployment of Kenyan army troops to support the National Police Service in handling protest that may turns things more violent.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and destruction as flames engulfed the outer sections of the Parliament complex.
The IMF’s involvement in Kenya’s economic policy has been a point of contention.
