Youths in Bondo have vandalized and set fire to the home of their Member of Parliament, Gideon Ochanda, following his vote in favor of the controversial 2024 finance bill. The incident marks a significant escalation in the public backlash against the bill, which has sparked widespread demonstrations across the country.
The attack on MP Gideon Ochanda’s residence occurred late last night. Eyewitnesses report that a large group of angry youths descended on the property, first vandalizing it by breaking windows and damaging the exterior. They then set the house ablaze, causing extensive damage. By the time emergency services arrived, much of the house had already been consumed by flames.
The 2024 finance bill has been a source of major contention in Kenya, proposing significant tax increases that many citizens argue will worsen their financial burdens. Ochanda’s decision to vote in favor of the bill has been met with particular anger from his constituents, who feel betrayed by his support for measures they believe are detrimental to their economic well-being.