Willliam Ruto withdraws Kenya finance bill after deadly protests

Kenya's President William Ruto has stated that he will remove a finance bill that includes contentious tax increases following violent demonstrations that resulted in the parliament building catching fire on Tuesday.

In a speech to the country, he stated that it was evident that Kenyans have no interest in the bill.

"I agree," he remarked, stating that he will not approve the bill to become a law.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNHRC), which is funded by the state, reported that a minimum of 22 individuals lost their lives during the protests that took place on Tuesday.

Mr Ruto stated that he will now engage in discussions with the youth, who have been leading the largest protests in the country since his election in 2022.

After carefully considering the feedback from the citizens of Kenya, who have made it clear that they strongly oppose the Finance Bill 2024, I agree.

"So, I have decided not to approve the 2024 Finance Bill, and it will be removed. The citizens have expressed their views," he stated during the live broadcast.

Parliament approved the bill on Tuesday, even though there were protests happening throughout the country.

Demonstrators forcibly entered the parliament building, causing damage inside and starting fires in certain areas. The ceremonial mace, which represents the power of the legislative body, was taken.

Mr Ruto first reacted with stubbornness.

He told the military to go out and handle the situation, stating that any form of violence or chaos would not be accepted.

However, he descended on Wednesday, as the outrage from the public increased due to the deaths of protesters.

Wanjeri Nderu, leader of the International Society For Human Rights, explained to the BBC that the situation during the protest felt as though they were in a battle. She also mentioned that the police were using real bullets even before the protesters entered parliament.

Catholic leaders criticized the actions of the security forces and begged the police not to use violence against the protestors. They also encouraged the protestors to stay calm and peaceful.

The Law Society of Kenya requested the assistance of global criminal investigators to support families seeking justice, citing reports of soldiers clashing with protesters at parliament.

Antonio Guterres, the leader of the United Nations, expressed his sadness about the news of people being killed and injured during protests and demonstrations in Kenya. This includes journalists and medical workers.

He also asked the Kenyan authorities to show self-control and requested that all protests be peaceful.