“A fire broke out at Kenya’s Parliament amid massive protests against a new financial law, marking a direct attack on the government like never before. Thousands of protesters invaded the building, forcing lawmakers to flee, while that scenes of chaos unfolded before the eyes of journalists, who were able to see at least three lifeless bodies outside the complex, where police shots were heard.
The protesters’ anger was directed at a controversial law imposing new taxes in a country where frustrations over the high cost of living have been simmering for years. Protesters managed to enter Parliament just after lawmakers voted in favor of the bill. Parliamentarians fled through a tunnel, while protesters let out opposition lawmakers who had voted against the law.
The office of the Nairobi governor, a member of the ruling party, was also set on fire, being close to Parliament. Water cannons were used by police to put out the fire. The demonstrators chanted: “We will meet every politician.”
Live ammunition and tear gas were used by the police against the demonstrators, who were rescued in a medical tent set up near Parliament. The Kenyan Human Rights Commission shared a video showing police shooting at protesters, promising they will be held accountable for their actions.
Two people lost their lives during similar protests the previous week. Kenya Law Society president Faith Odhiambo said 50 Kenyans, including her personal assistant, were “kidnapped” by individuals suspected of being police officers.
Some of the missing were active figures in the protests, taken from their homes, workplaces and public spaces before Tuesday’s demonstrations, according to civil society organizations. Police officials did not immediately respond to calls seeking an explanation. President William Ruto was outside the capital for an African Union summit. He expressed his pride in the youth demonstrators who are exercising their democratic duty and promised to dialogue with them on their concerns.
This text reviews the dramatic events that occurred in Kenya, highlighting the political and social tensions that are shaking the country. The narrative focuses on the violence and abuses perpetrated during the protests, highlighting the importance of the political issues and democratic struggles that animate the Kenyan population.