More than 200 protesters have been arrested in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, during ongoing protests against proposed tax hikes in a finance bill that is set to be tabled in parliament. Civil society groups have announced that demonstrations and sit-downs outside parliament will continue despite the arrests. Protesters were met with tear gas from the police, causing businesses to close temporarily. A lawyer participating in the protests emphasized that the demonstrations were fighting for the rights of all Kenyans potentially impacted by the tax increases.
Some significant tax proposals in the bill were dropped following a meeting between ruling party lawmakers and President William Ruto. The proposed 16% value-added tax on bread was one of the proposals that was eliminated. Other levies, such as a 2.5% annual tax on motor vehicles through insurance, have been amended. Additionally, a tax on environmentally degrading goods will only apply to imports to promote local manufacturing. Rights groups like Amnesty Kenya have demanded the immediate release of all arrested protesters and observers.
President Ruto has defended the proposed taxes, arguing for financial self-sustainability for Kenya. However, opposition leader Raila Odinga has criticized the bill, calling it an “investment killer” and a burden on the poor. Opposition figure Kalonzo Musyoka has threatened weekly protests if the finance bill is approved as proposed. Legislators are set to debate the bill, with a vote scheduled for the following Monday. Last year’s finance law already introduced new taxes, including a 1.5% housing tax on salaried individuals and a doubling of VAT on petroleum products.
The right to peaceful protest is guaranteed by the Kenyan Constitution, although organizers are required to notify the police in advance. Police typically grant permission unless there are security concerns. Amnesty Kenya reports that its staff members observing the protests were arrested, while the Kenya Law Society President stated that lawyers were subjected to tear gas at a police station while trying to see their clients. Opposition politicians and activists are urging legislators to scrutinize the bill and remove clauses that would disproportionately affect the poor and hinder investment.
The situation in Nairobi is further complicated by recent flooding that has claimed at least 70 lives. More rain is expected through the weekend, exacerbating the already dire situation. Despite the challenges faced by the country, protesters and civil society groups remain determined to voice their opposition to the proposed tax hikes. The debate over the finance bill, the arrests of protesters, and ongoing demonstrations highlight the tensions surrounding fiscal policy and governance in Kenya.
