Kenya’s President William Ruto has announced the withdrawal of a contentious finance bill that sparked deadly protests across the country.
The decision comes after at least 22 people lost their lives during demonstrations, which saw parliament buildings vandalized and set on fire.
In a televised address to the nation, President Ruto acknowledged the widespread public outcry against the Finance Bill 2024, stating, “Listening keenly to the people of Kenya who have said loudly that they want nothing to do with this Finance Bill 2024, I concede.”
He further declared that he will not sign the bill into law and that it will subsequently be withdrawn.
“I concede, and therefore, I will not sign the 2024 Finance Bill and it shall subsequently be withdrawn” – H.E. William Ruto, President of Kenya
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The bill, which had been passed by parliament on Tuesday amid nationwide dissent, provoked intense public backlash due to its proposed tax hikes on essential goods and services.
Protesters, predominantly led by young people, expressed vehement opposition, arguing that the bill would exacerbate the country’s already severe cost-of-living crisis.
The demonstrations turned violent as protesters breached parliament, vandalizing its interior and setting parts of the complex ablaze. The symbolic ceremonial mace, representing legislative authority, was stolen during the chaos.
Initially responding with a deployment of military forces to quell what he termed “violence and anarchy,” President Ruto later reversed course as public outrage mounted over the use of force against demonstrators.
Wanjeri Nderu of the International Society For Human Rights described the protests as akin to a war zone, noting allegations of excessive use of force by security forces even before parliament was breached. The Catholic bishops of Kenya condemned the actions of security forces and appealed for restraint, urging both protesters and law enforcement to prioritize peace.
International concern over the situation in Kenya has also been voiced, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressing deep sadness over reports of deaths and injuries, including those involving journalists and medical personnel. He called on Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint and emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstrations.
The withdrawal of the Finance Bill marks a significant turn in Kenya’s political landscape, with President Ruto now pledging to engage in dialogue with the public, particularly the youth who have been at the forefront of demanding policy change.