Kenyan National Assembly passes controversial finance bill amid protests

In the face of ongoing protests by a large number of citizens, Kenya’s national assembly has approved the contentious finance bill.

The bill was passed on Tuesday with 195 lawmakers voting in favor and 106 opposing it, with no abstentions recorded.

Last week, President William Ruto called on parliament to pass the bill as protests gained strength. The bill was approved with modifications that eliminated contentious taxes on bread, financial services, and motor vehicles.

Despite opposition, legislators have approved an increase in tax measures, such as raising the railway development levy to 2.5 percent of customs value and the import declaration fee to 3.5 percent.

The bill is now on its way to Ruto for approval. Ruto has expressed willingness to engage in discussions with the protesting youths.

Following a sudden escalation during the protests on Tuesday, the president remarked that radical elements had derailed discussions regarding the bill.

Ruto emphasized the importance of distinguishing between lawful expression and criminal behavior, pledging a comprehensive government response.

Tragically, multiple fatalities have been reported as police resorted to using live ammunition and tear gas to suppress the unrest in Nairobi.

Additionally, there were disturbing incidents of Kenyan police assaulting and detaining medical personnel providing aid to injured demonstrators.