There have been brutal clashes between anti-tax protesters and riot police outside Kenya's Parliament, with reports suggested live ammunition has been fired and as many as eight people have been killed.
In Nairobi police have been seen firing live ammunition at anti-government protesters as thousands continue to rally against new taxes proposed in a controversial finance bill. Last week's protests resulted in two fatalities, but no fresh casualties were reported on Tuesday. There are also as-yet unconfirmed reports that the country's Parliament building is currently on fire.
Emergency response shelters have been set up in various cities, stocked with supplies donated by Kenyan citizens. The third wave of protests coincides with lawmakers voting on the finance bill, which proposes new taxes including an eco-levy that would increase the cost of items such as sanitary towels and diapers.
(AFP via Getty Images)A proposal to tax bread was scrapped following public outcry, but demonstrators are still urging Parliament not to pass the bill.
On Tuesday, the Kenya Human Rights Commission shared a video of officers shooting at protesters, vowing that they would be held accountable. The commission addressed President William Ruto directly, stating: "The world is watching your descent into tyranny! Your regime's actions is an assault on democracy. All those involved in the shooting actively or passively must be held to account."
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Faith Odhiambo, President of the Kenya Law Society, claimed on Tuesday that 50 Kenyans, including her personal assistant, had been "abducted" by individuals believed to be police officers. She reported instances of extrajudicial killings, police abductions, torture and people being held incommunicado for several days.
Kenyan riot police have reportedly opened fire on protesters outside the country's Parliament building n Nairobi (AFP via Getty Images)Several of the missing individuals were reportedly active in the ongoing protests and were allegedly taken from their homes, workplaces, and public areas in the lead up to Tuesday's demonstrations, as per civil society groups.
Police officials have yet to respond to requests for comment. On Tuesday, Parliament Speaker Moses Wetangula instructed the police inspector general to provide information on the whereabouts of those reportedly abducted by the police, according to opposition claims.
Ruto praised the young people who participated in the democratic process on Sunday, stating that he was proud of them and would address their concerns. Ruto is currently attending an African Union retreat outside the capital.
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