Protesters break into Kenya's Parliament Buildings over controversial Finance Bill

NAIROBI, Kenya - Thousands of protesters forced their way into Kenya's legislative headquarters; the Parliament Buildings, just moments after legislators passed amendments to a controversial Finance Bill, which dictates taxation measures on raising finances.

Just moments before 3 pm local time, protesters, who were otherwise unharmed, made their way to the precinct of Parliament, which is a protected area. They managed to vandalize the front parts of the Senate, which is the Upper House.

The unprecedented incident came shortly after police fired live bullets at protesters, killing a number of protesters just near the Parliament Buildings. They chanted 'Ruto must go' slogans outside the chambers as MPs allied to the government approved the bill in the Third Reading.

Police were overwhelmed as they blocked the protesters in different parts of the city since morning. In some cases, angry protesters burnt police water canons and vehicles as they occupied strategic areas within the capital, Nairobi.

The uncoordinated teams started their march early morning, honouring calls dubbed as 'Occupy Parliament', a slogan which has been renting the air for the last two months. The protests also escalated to different parts of the country, including Eldoret, the hometown of President William Ruto.

Other towns where the protests are active include Nakuru, Mombasa, Nyeri, Machakos, and Kisii. Conspicuously, Kisumu City, the home turf of opposition leader Raila Odinga, remained relatively calm. This is not surprising though since Mr. Odinga is the candidate of Kenya for AU Commission chairmanship.

The government-allied legislators approved the controversial bill having garnered 195 votes with those opposing the Finance Bill managing 106 votes. The opposition legislators walked out of parliament as they joined the angry protesters.

On Monday, Interior and National Administration minister Kithure Kindiki said police would respect the rights to picket as enshrined in the constitution but warned that those involved must adhere to the rules and regulations as stipulated in the constitution.

Unlike in the past, the protesters appeared to be independent, with no political influence or persuasions. Most of those who have been vocal on social media are on record for assisting President William Ruto during the 2022 presidential campaign.

They argue that the bill escalates the cost of living to unprecedented levels, adding that 'thus defies the principle of Bottom-Up Approach'. When he assumed leadership, President William Ruto insisted that his administration focus on improving the livelihoods of the poor.

On Sunday, President William Ruto maintained that he was flexible in engaging the protesters, the majority of them the youth, who are struggling with economic hardship. "Let us come together and engage each other," he said while giving room for negotiations.

Tuesday's incident could have stiff social-economic and political implications for Kenya, a country considered the hub of peace and prosperity in Africa. While the number of those who have been killed in Parliament remains unclear, a source told Garowe Online that "the number could be more than 20".

Despite the effort by police to restrain the protesters, the majority of them are still in the streets, vowing to take control of Parliament eventually. MPs allied to the government have since been evacuated for safety reasons as more police joined the battles.

For the better part of Tuesday, State House remained highly protected with dozens of elite security teams taking over. The youths maintained their protests would continue until Parliament rejected the bill, which they insisted would increase the cost of living. The interior ministry is yet to issue a statement.

GAROWE ONLINE