Kenyans Defy Tear Gas in Renewed Protests Against Tax Hikes
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Published by Everything ZA News
Nairobi, Kenya – Hundreds of protestors defied tear gas fired by Kenyan police as they took to the streets of Nairobi on Thursday. This marks a continuation of nationwide demonstrations against proposed tax increases, which many fear will exacerbate the existing cost-of-living crisis.
The cash-strapped government of President William Ruto made some concessions on Tuesday following clashes between police and protestors, primarily young people. However, they are still pushing for some tax hikes, defending them as necessary to fill the national coffers and reduce dependence on external loans.
Protestors vowed to continue their demonstrations across the country, including in opposition strongholds like Mombasa and Kisumu. “They need to completely reject the bill, not just tweak it,” declared 21-year-old Sarah Njoroge to AFP. “They seem to think we’ll get tired of expressing ourselves online.”
Heavy police presence and road closures were implemented near parliament in Nairobi as lawmakers began debating the bill on Wednesday. Protestors remain determined to reach parliament, which must finalize the bill by June 30th. A parliamentary source expects a vote on the proposals on June 27th.
The projected revenue from these taxes was 346.7 billion shillings ($2.7 billion), aiming to reduce the budget deficit from 5.7% to 3.3% of GDP.
Concessions and the Resulting Shortfall
The presidency announced the removal of proposed levies on bread purchases, car ownership, and financial/mobile services on Tuesday. However, this sparked a warning from the treasury regarding a 200-billion-shilling budget shortfall.
To compensate for this shortfall, the government now aims to increase fuel prices and export taxes. Critics argue this will only worsen the situation for Kenyans already grappling with high inflation.
Kenya’s economy, a powerhouse in East Africa, relies heavily on diesel for transportation, power generation, and agriculture. Kerosene, used by many households for cooking and lighting, will also be subject to higher taxes.
Previous Protests and Moving Forward
Tuesday’s protests were largely peaceful, although police employed tear gas to disperse protestors dressed in black, leading to cat-and-mouse chases. Collaborating human rights groups, including KNCHR and Amnesty Kenya, reported at least 335 arrests.
Organizers, fearing reprisals, remained anonymous while planning the next stage. “We’ve changed tactics,” said one. “Today, we’ll wear bright, defiant clothing to avoid another mass arrest of people in black.”
Kenya, despite having one of the most dynamic economies in East Africa, faces significant social issues. One-third of its 51.5 million people live in poverty. Overall inflation remains stubborn, standing at 5.1% annually in May. Food and fuel inflation are even higher, at 6.2% and 7.8% respectively, according to central bank data.
The success of these continued protests and the ultimate fate of the tax bill remain to be seen. However, one thing is certain: Kenyans are frustrated and determined to fight what they see as an unfair burden on their already strained finances.
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