Kenya's President Ruto rejects finance bill after deadly protests

In a televised address on Wednesday, Kenya's President William Ruto announced that he would not sign the 2024 finance bill, which had sparked protests due to tax hikes, and stated that the bill would be withdrawn. The decision came after violent clashes between protesters and police, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries. Al Jazeera's Malcolm Webb reported skepticism among protest organizers towards Ruto's speech, emphasizing the need for the president to formally reject the bill through a memorandum to parliament to appease the public. As police used tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds in Nairobi, the situation escalated when live rounds were reportedly fired, prompting protesters to storm Parliament and set it on fire. Ruto responded by deploying the military, although there is uncertainty surrounding the exact death toll. The Kenya Medical Association indicated at least 23 fatalities and 30 individuals being treated for gunshot wounds, with plans for an inquiry into the violence. Instances of looting were also reported in Nairobi and other areas. Following Ruto's announcement, there was a sense of relief among citizens, with hopes that negotiations could lead to the cancellation of further protests or the development of a new bill. Analysts suggested that Ruto could completely revise the bill and engage in discussions with politicians on future finance legislation. The protests erupted after Parliament approved the controversial finance bill, leading to a deadly escalation of violence. The situation remains tense as the government and protesters navigate the aftermath of the clashes and seek a path forward.