Key Points
- Kenyan court allows military deployment to quell Kenya tax protests
- The protests, primarily led by young people, oppose government tax hikes
- So far more than 20 people have died as protesters clash with police
- President William Ruto has withdrawn the bill following the protests
- The finance bill aimed to raise taxes to alleviate Kenya’s debt burdens
Kenya tax protests: military deployment to quell protests over government tax hikes
The Kenyan High Court has authorised the use of military force to restore order after anti-tax protests overwhelmed police forces. These protests, primarily led by young people opposing government tax hikes, have resulted in over 20 deaths nationwide. Armoured military vehicles patrolled Nairobi on Thursday, and police used tear gas to disperse protesters threatening to storm the presidential palace.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi emphasised the necessity of military deployment to protect government installations but said authorities must clarify how long the military operation would last, along with its rule of engagement. He warned against indefinite military deployment, which could lead to the country’s militarisation.
President William Ruto has announced the withdrawal of the contentious finance bill, following significant pressure and violent protests. Government spokesman Isaac Mwaura described the bill’s withdrawal as a significant setback, attributing the opposition to misinformation campaigns.
The finance bill aimed to raise taxes to alleviate Kenya’s debt burdens, as required by international lenders like the IMF. Many protesters doubt if the president will implement the austerity measures he announced on Wednesday.