Thousands of Kenyans have taken to the streets, protesting the controversial tax amendment bill, which they say will lead to increased burden on the poor and middle class.
Demonstrators, including civil society groups and opposition supporters, marched to the parliament building, demanding that senators reject the proposed legislation.
As tensions escalated, protesters forced their way into the parliament premises, pushing past security forces and causing chaos.
“We will not be silenced!” chanted the crowd, waving placards and banners. “This bill is a robbery of the poor!”
The tax amendment bill, which aims to increase revenue for the government, has been widely criticized for its potential to exacerbate economic inequality.
In its current state, the bill will impose a 16% VAT on bread, transportation of sugar, financial services, foreign exchange transactions and a 2.5% tax on motor vehicles.
The government had defended the hikes, which were expected to raise $2.7 billion, as necessary to reduce reliance on external borrowing.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who has been leading the charge against the bill, addressed the crowd, vowing to continue the fight against “economic injustice”.
“The government is out of touch with the people’s suffering,” Odinga declared. “We will not let them pass this bill without a fight!”
As the standoff continues, concerns are growing over the potential for further violence and unrest.
The government is yet to respond to the protesters’ demands, but sources indicate that a special parliamentary session may be convened to address the crisis.
The situation remains volatile, with Kenyans anxiously awaiting a resolution to the political impasse.
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