Violent protests in Kenya as police open fire on anti-tax bill demonstrators

In a dramatic turn of events, part of Kenya's parliament building was set ablaze on Tuesday as thousands of protesters clashed with legislators over a new finance bill, marking a significant challenge to the government. Lawmakers fled through a tunnel while protesters allowed opposition legislators who opposed the bill to leave the besieged building. The office of the Nairobi governor, a member of the ruling party, was also on fire, with police using water cannons to extinguish the flames. Amid the chaos, police officers resorted to firing live ammunition and tear gas at protesters seeking medical aid at a nearby church, leading to heightened tensions and calls for accountability from human rights groups. The protests, fueled by opposition to tax hikes and a deepening cost of living crisis, have escalated with reports of at least 10 deaths and numerous injuries. Demonstrators are demanding the resignation of President William Ruto and a complete overhaul of the government. The unrest has been fueled by economic hardships exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, droughts, and currency depreciation, with the finance bill aiming to raise additional taxes to alleviate the country's debt burden. The clashes outside the parliament have underscored the growing discontent among Kenyans, particularly the youth, who are mobilizing through social media platforms to voice their grievances and push for change. President Ruto, who won the election on a pro-poor platform, now faces a dilemma between meeting lenders' demands for fiscal discipline and addressing the population's pressing needs. The violent confrontations outside the parliament reflect a broader societal frustration with the government's handling of economic challenges and the perceived disconnect between the ruling elite and the ordinary citizens. As the protests continue to unfold, the situation remains volatile, with calls for accountability, political reform, and economic relief echoing across the country. The clashes outside the parliament building serve as a stark reminder of the deep-seated grievances and growing unrest within Kenyan society, underscoring the urgent need for dialogue and meaningful reforms to address the root causes of the crisis.