26 June 2024 , 15:11
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The president of Kenya has ordered a financial bill be withdrawn after brutal clashes between protesters and police, as rioters set fire to Parliament.
The government had wanted to raise funds to pay off some of the country's debt but people in the country argued it would cause economic pain as millions struggle to get by. There had recently 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 killed.
President William Ruto says he has "conceded" after listening to his people as the bill caused "widespread dissatisfaction". He added: "It is necessary for us to have a conversation as a nation on how to do we manage the affairs of the country together."
President of Kenya William Ruto addresses the senate todat (AFP via Getty Images)The bill would have raised taxes and fees on a range of daily items and services, including egg imports and bank transfers. The government wanted the revenue to pay off debt in East Africa's economic hub.
The move is seen as a major setback for the president, who came to power vowing to help Kenyans cope with rising costs but has seen much of the country unite in opposition to his latest attempt at reforms. On Tuesday, the Kenya Human Rights Commission shared a video of officers shooting at protesters, vowing they would be held accountable.
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People clashing with police in Nairobi (Anadolu via Getty Images)The commission addressed President Ruto, saying: "The 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."
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.
Clashes with police have been ongoing (Anadolu 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.