anti-riot police officers were deployed around Parliament in Nairobi in anticipation of the planned ‘Occupy Parliament’ protests. This move followed vows from a segment of Kenyans, spearheaded by human rights activists, to demonstrate against the proposed tax increases detailed in the Finance Bill 2024.
Police barricaded roads leading to Parliament to prevent protestors from accessing the restricted area, ensuring the security and smooth proceedings within the legislative precincts. The protests were intended to pressure lawmakers to reject the Finance Bill, which was scheduled for deliberation in the House later that afternoon.
Support for the protests was evident on social media, where Kenyans actively shared posters and guidelines for the demonstrations outside the Parliament buildings. On Monday, leaflets circulated in Nairobi’s Central Business District, urging citizens to “stand up against excessive taxation by ‘Zakayo’,” a nickname that has been colloquially adopted for President William Ruto in light of his administration’s tax policies.
Human rights activist Boniface Mwangi informed journalists that the protest was set to commence at 11 a.m., ahead of the Parliament session scheduled for 2 p.m. Posters distributed on social media instructed protesters to wear black clothing and adhere to a code of conduct emphasizing calm and peaceful behavior. Protesters were specifically urged to avoid violence, abusive language, and property damage, maintaining the non-violent nature of the demonstration.
Despite the protests, there were indications of potential amendments to the Finance Bill. Sylvanus Osoro, the National Assembly Majority Whip, mentioned that the Finance Committee was considering amendments, particularly in response to public outcry. These amendments included reconsidering increased taxes on essential items such as bread and vegetable oils, and reviewing new levies on motor vehicle circulation, internet services, and money transfers.
The Finance Bill 2024, a significant legislative piece, aims to generate an additional Ksh.300 billion in tax revenue. This objective has, however, met with substantial opposition from citizens, who argue that the tax hikes would disproportionately affect the lower and middle classes.
President William Ruto was reportedly chairing a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Parliamentary Group meeting at State House ahead of the bill’s tabling in Parliament. This high-level meeting was seen as crucial in rallying support among UDA members for the Finance Bill.
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