Kenya to Reintroduce Tax Proposals After Protests

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — In a recent television interview, Kenya's new finance minister, John Mbadi, announced plans to reintroduce several controversial taxes that had sparked widespread protests earlier this year. The proposed tax amendment bill aims to address the country's pressing revenue needs to manage its debts. This move has reignited public outrage, particularly among those who had previously demonstrated against the rising cost of living, leading to calls for President William Ruto to withdraw the contentious finance bill and make significant changes to his Cabinet. The tax amendment bill is expected to include various measures, notably a tax on environmentally harmful goods. Mbadi emphasized that Kenya should not be a dumping ground for such products. However, critics argue that this tax could disproportionately raise prices on essential items like sanitary towels and diapers, further burdening the populace. The youth-led protest movement has vowed to continue demonstrations across the country in response to the minister's announcement. Since the protests began in mid-June, over 50 individuals have reportedly lost their lives, with allegations of police brutality surfacing amid the unrest. Opposition lawmaker Robert Mbui criticized the reintroduction of the taxes as a "mistake," accusing Mbadi of inconsistency after previously stating there would be no tax increases. President Ruto has defended the need for these taxes, asserting that self-sufficiency is crucial for the nation, while firmly rejecting calls for his resignation.