More than 200 protesters have been arrested in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, in ongoing protests against proposed tax hikes in a finance bill that is scheduled to be tabled in parliament. Civil society groups have stated that demonstrations and a planned sit-down outside parliament buildings will continue despite the arrest of protesters. Nairobi Police Commander Adamson Bungei stated that no group had been granted permission to protest in the capital, despite the right to peaceful protests being guaranteed in the Kenyan Constitution. Police generally allow protests to proceed unless there are security concerns. Tear gas was used by police against demonstrators on Tuesday, leading to the temporary closure of businesses due to looting fears. Lawyer Wanjohi Gachie expressed that the protesters were fighting for the rights of all Kenyans potentially affected by the tax hikes.
Major tax proposals in the bill were dropped after a meeting between ruling party lawmakers and President William Ruto, including the proposal to introduce a 16% value-added tax on bread. Other contentious levies such as a proposed 2.5% motor vehicle annual tax on insurance were also amended. The tax on goods that degrade the environment will only apply to imported goods to encourage local manufacturing. Rights group Amnesty Kenya voiced their concern over the arrests of their staff members who were observing the protests and demanded their immediate and unconditional release. Kenya Law Society President Faith Odhiambo reported that tear gas was used on lawyers at a Nairobi police station as they attempted to see their clients.
President Ruto has defended the proposed taxes, stating that the country must be financially self-sustaining and live within its means. Opposition leader Raila Odinga urged legislators to carefully scrutinize the bill and remove clauses that would disproportionately affect the poor. Opposition figure Kalonzo Musyoka threatened to resume weekly protests if the finance bill is approved as proposed. Legislators are set to debate the bill beginning Wednesday, with a vote scheduled for Monday. Last year’s finance law introduced a 1.5% housing tax on gross income for salaried individuals and doubled VAT on petroleum products from 8% to 16%, despite concerns that it would further burden Kenyans already facing a high cost of living.
The protests and unrest in Nairobi highlight the growing discontent and frustration among Kenyan citizens over proposed tax hikes that could worsen their financial burdens. The clash between protesters and police underscores the challenges facing civil society groups and individuals seeking to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly. The government’s decision to drop some of the major tax proposals in response to the protests and discussions with ruling party lawmakers shows a willingness to address public concerns, but the ongoing arrests and use of force by police raise issues about freedom of expression and the right to dissent in Kenya. As the debate on the finance bill continues, the involvement of opposition leaders and advocacy groups will be crucial in advocating for a fair and equitable tax system that does not disproportionately impact the most vulnerable members of society.
