Protests Erupt in Kenya Over Proposed Tax Hikes in Finance Bill

Kenya

country in Eastern Africa

Provocative

Highlights

Hundreds of protesters have been arrested in ongoing protests in Kenya's capital Nairobi.
The protests are against proposed tax hikes in a finance bill set to be tabled in parliament.
Tensions rise as more than 200 individuals are detained amidst the demonstrations.

Story

Protests in Nairobi against proposed tax hikes have led to over 200 arrests. Some major tax proposals were dropped after a meeting between ruling party lawmakers and President William Ruto. The group demands the release of arrested protesters. Police used tear gas on lawyers seeking to see their clients. Ruto defended the taxes, emphasizing financial self-sustainability. Opposition leader Raila Odinga criticized the bill for burdening the poor. Legislators are set to debate the bill with a vote scheduled for Monday. The law also doubled VAT on petroleum products from 8% to 16%.