Nairobi: Heavy security amid violent protests against Kenya’s controversial finance bill | World News

There is heavy security in Nairobi, amid protests of escalating violence against a controversial bill.

Thousands of people have taken to the streets of the Kenyan capital despite the president’s decision not to sign the finance bill.

At least 22 protestors were reportedly killed on Tuesday after angry crowds stormed the country’s national parliament.

And demonstrators still decided to go ahead with a protest march on Thursday.

Image:
Pic: Reuters/Monicah Mwangi

President William Ruto has vowed to withdraw the tax hikes and says he intends to make budget cuts instead.

Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, meanwhile, has issued a plea for the demonstration to be called off.

One protestor, Boniface Mwangi, urged protestors to march peacefully as a mark of respect for those who have died.

“Invasion of the State House isn’t a solution,” he wrote in a post on X.

People argue with a Police member at a demonstration over police killings of people protesting against Kenya's proposed finance bill 2024/2025, in Nairobi, Kenya, June 27, 2024. REUTERS/Monicah Mwangi
Image:
Pic: Reuters/Monicah Mwangi

But activists warn the stakes are higher than ever as Mr Ruto has committed to quashing unrest “at whatever cost”.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to Mr Ruto on Wednesday.

He thanked the president for taking steps to reduce tensions in the country.

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In May, President Ruto became the first African leader in 16 years to pay a state visit to Washington.

On Tuesday, the US declared Kenya its first major non-Nato ally in sub-Saharan Africa.

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