Kenya Protest Highlights : President says ‘criminals’ hijacked protests as several dead in gunfire outside parliament

As recent developments in Kenya have led to a heightened state of tension and unrest, Indian High Commission in Nairobi issued a precautionary advisory for Indian nationals residing in the country.

'In view of the prevailing tense situation, all Indians in Kenya are advised to exercise utmost caution, restrict non-essential movement and avoid the areas affected by the protests and violence till the situation clears up., ' it stated.

It also urged the residents to stay updated by monitoring local news, visiting the Mission’s website, and following its social media handles for the latest updates.

ADVISORY FOR INDIAN NATIONALS IN KENYA

In view of the prevailing tense situation, all Indians in Kenya are advised to exercise utmost caution, restrict non-essential movement and avoid the areas affected by the protests and violence till the situation clears up.

— India in Kenya (@IndiainKenya) June 25, 2024

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, expressed deep concern over the events unfolding in Kenya and called for an immediate cessation of further violence.

He urged all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issues that sparked the protests in Kenya's supreme interest. Mahamat reaffirmed the African Union's unwavering solidarity with the Government and People of Kenya, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the country.

Statement of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission @AUC_MoussaFaki on the situation in #Kenya
https://t.co/M6wRjRGCjN pic.twitter.com/hp5PdYswjr

— African Union (@_AfricanUnion) June 25, 2024

Press Briefing, State House, Nairobi. pic.twitter.com/XaCbLshV2K

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) June 25, 2024

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged for restraint from Kenyan police and security forces while calling on protesters to demonstrate peacefully, according to UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday.

"It is crucial that the right of people to peaceful demonstration be respected," Mr. Dujarric emphasized.

In a statement, US President Joe Biden hailed the arrival of the Kenyan police in Haiti as a pivotal moment that 'will bring much needed relief' to the island nation of nearly 12 million people.

'I commend – and am deeply grateful to – all the countries that have pledged personnel and financial support to this mission,' Biden said, emphasizing the significance of international cooperation in addressing Haiti's escalating crisis. He noted that the United States has contributed over $300 million in funding and up to $60 million in equipment to support the peacekeeping effort.

Last July, Kenya stepped forward to lead an international coalition, endorsed by the United Nations, aimed at quelling the escalating violence in Haiti. President William Ruto described the mission as 'one of the most urgent, important, and historic in the history of global solidarity.' This commitment comes as gangs controlling much of the Haitian capital have perpetrated widespread violence, including killings, kidnappings, and sexual assaults.

The deployment of Kenyan police, joined by officers from approximately 15 other nations including countries across Africa, the Caribbean, and Western allies such as Canada, France, Germany, Britain, and Spain, forms a robust 2,500-strong peacekeeping force primarily funded by the United States.

Here is a summary of what President William Ruto said:

- National Security Threat: President Ruto called the storming of parliament a national security threat and vowed that such unrest won't happen again “at whatever cost.”

- Address Following Violence: He spoke in a national address hours after part of the parliament building was burned as protesters against a new finance bill stormed in, forcing legislators to flee. This was described as the most direct assault on the government in decades.

- Critical Turning Point: Ruto stated, “Today’s events mark a critical turning point on how we respond to threats to our national security,” and described the events as “treasonous.”

Ruto concludes by stating that the government will consider every threat to national security as a "fundamental threat to our nation," and those involved in such threats will be regarded as committing "treason."

“I appreciate your efforts, and I assure you that the discussions you have initiated on critical national issues will continue to guide our policies and governance decisions,” he affirmed.

“As I pledged earlier, this dialogue will not be disregarded.”

However, Ruto did not comment on whether he would withdraw his support for the finance bill, which opposition parties and demonstrators have been demanding.

Kenya’s president Ruto states these measures are aimed at “thwarting any attempts by dangerous criminals to undermine the security and stability of our country”.

He did not provide specifics on these measures.

“As the Kenyan people prepare for bed tonight, I assure you that your security, that of your families, and your property remains my highest priority,” he assured.

"The attack on Kenya's constitutional order today tragically led to loss of life," stated the Kenyan president.

Ruto also noted that property was destroyed and "institutions and symbols of our sovereignty" were desecrated.

"Today's events represent a pivotal moment in our response to serious threats to national security," he added.

"I assure the nation that the government has mobilized all available resources to ensure that such a situation does not happen again – regardless of the effort required."

We will provide the Kenyan president's comments as soon as they are available.

Defence Minister, Aden Duale has shared a formal government notice regarding the deployment, stating that it is "in response to the security emergency caused by the ongoing violent protests" in various parts of the country.

The notice mentions that the protests have led to the "destruction and breaching of critical infrastructure."

In compliance with Section 34(2) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act. pic.twitter.com/JmoimkYclw

— Hon. Aden Duale, EGH (@HonAdenDuale) June 25, 2024

The White House has urged calm and stated it is "closely monitoring" the situation in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

"We condemn violence in all its forms and urge calm," said a spokesperson for the National Security Council.

President William Ruto is set to address the nation at a press briefing scheduled for 18:00 GMT today. This will mark his first public comments on the significant events that have unfolded in Kenya over the past 24 hours.

The United States has officially designated Kenya as a major non-NATO ally for arms exports, according to a press statement from the White House on Monday.

President Joe Biden confirmed his decision to sign the memorandum that grants Kenya this designation, bringing the country under the Arms Export Control Act of the US. This designation allows for the delivery of arms to Kenya for purposes of "legitimate self-defense."

The statement highlighted that Kenya's new status as a major non-NATO ally is expected to enhance cooperation, boost trade, and increase investment between the United States and Kenya. Additionally, Biden's statement emphasized that this designation will strengthen the US's security presence in the region.

Raila Odinga, leader of the opposition Azimio political alliance and former Prime Minister,  has commented on the demonstrations and Kenyan government's handling of ongoing protests sparked by the Finance Bill. In a statement published in Kenyan daily The Star, Odinga expressed deep concern over the violent crackdown on youthful demonstrators exercising their right to peaceful assembly.

"The government's obstinacy has led our country into unprecedented developments," Odinga mentioned. He condemned what he described as the suspension of constitutional rights and called for an immediate halt to police brutality.

"The constitution appears to have been suspended. We cannot allow this," Odinga said.

Odinga specifically criticized the Finance Bill as unnecessary and called for its immediate withdrawal to pave the way for dialogue and a peaceful resolution. He emphasized that similar concessions had been made in the past and urged the government to revert to the previous Finance Act until a consensus could be reached.

"I am calling on regional and international bodies including the East African Community, African Union, and United Nations to intervene urgently to save lives and stabilize the situation," Odinga stated.

Rights groups in Kenya have sounded alarms over 21 reported abductions and disappearances, allegedly carried out by both uniformed and non-uniformed officers within the past 24 hours. According to statements from the Law Society of Kenya, the Kenya Medical Association, Amnesty International Kenya, and the Police Reforms Working Group-Kenya, at least 52 arrests have also been documented.

In a joint statement, the organizations called for immediate de-escalation of the situation and an end to the use of lethal force in protecting life. They further urged the establishment of safe medical corridors to ensure that medical personnel and ambulances can safely access and attend to the injured.

The statement condemned incidents where police allegedly fired at medical emergency centers, specifically citing an incident at Holy Basilica. It emphasized the urgent need to cease the use of live ammunition and ensure safe passage for emergency services to evacuate and treat those wounded in the ongoing unrest.

Last Tuesday, as protests commenced, Parliament swiftly announced emergency amendments. During a press briefing, Kuria Kimani, chairperson of the finance committee, disclosed that lawmakers intended to retract taxes on bread, oil, motor vehicles, and financial transactions, including mobile money payments.

Additionally, Kimani outlined that the proposed "eco levy" on imported plastic goods such as diapers, sanitary towels, and phones would solely apply to imported items, exempting local manufacturers. Adjustments were also made to medical and housing insurance levies for salary earners, reducing their impact.

Despite these concessions, demonstrators remained unsatisfied, and protests persisted following the arrest of over 200 individuals on June 18. Many protesters demanded the complete withdrawal of the bill.

In a joint statement issued by Ambassadors and High Commissioners representing several countries expressed grave concern over the recent violent protests, according to a report by Kenyan daily, Nation. 

The statement, signed by diplomatic missions including the Canadian High Commission, the British High Commission, and the Embassy of the United States of America, highlighted Kenya's constitutional right to peaceful protest and underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles and the rule of law.

The diplomats expressed shock and dismay at the scenes of violence outside the Kenyan Parliament, where lives were lost and injuries sustained, reportedly due to the use of live ammunition. They welcomed the statement from Chief Justice Martha Koome and voiced deep concern over allegations of protester abductions.

Recognizing the significance of civic engagement, particularly among Kenyan youth, in addressing public concerns, the international community called for restraint from all parties involved. They urged leaders to seek peaceful resolutions through constructive dialogue.

Despite widespread protests, lawmakers passed the Finance Bill on Tuesday. The majority of Parliament supports Deputy President Ruto's Kenya Kwanza alliance, according to a report by TV47.

Out of 359 MPs, 195 voted in favor ('yes'), while 106 opposed ('no'). Three votes were deemed invalid.

Ruto's allies argue that the bill will increase revenue for hiring more teachers, allocating funds to local governments, and enhancing infrastructure.

How MPs voted for Finance bill 2024 3rd reading.#TV47News pic.twitter.com/gPdocELA28

— TV47 (@tv47news) June 25, 2024

However, the official opposition coalition, One Kenya, argues that the bill will only burden Kenyans. On Tuesday, its leaders withdrew all 13 proposed amendments, stating that amending the 'flawed' bill would be pointless. Minority leader Opiyo Wandayi described the decision to withdraw the amendments as a call to completely reject the bill.

The Finance Bill 2024/25 introduces several tax reforms and increases in Kenya:

- New taxes on monetised digital content creation and a 5% tax hike on digital payments.

- Proposals for a 16% VAT on bread and a 25% excise duty on domestically produced raw and refined vegetable cooking oil.

- Introduction of a 2.75% additional income charge for salary earners under the national medical insurance plan.

- Implementation of a 2.5% annual tax on motor vehicles.

The All Saints Cathedral has criticied the National Police Service (NPS) for deploying teargas on its premises in an attempt to disperse Kenyans protesting the Finance Bill 2024/25, according to Kenyan media group, Citizen.

In a statement on X, the church consdemned the police's actions, urging law enforcement agencies to respect the sanctity of religious institutions amidst the ongoing demonstrations, which turned chaotic on Tuesday as protestors stormed Parliament.

'It is unfortunate that the police have proceeded to launch teargas into the All Saints Cathedral church compound in a bid to immobilize unarmed protestors,' the church stated.

'We call on the police to exercise their duty within reason and respect neutral spaces like worship centers.'

The Kenya Red Cross has reported on X that their vehicles have been attacked, resulting in injuries to staff and volunteers. The organization emphasized that they have no involvement in transporting individuals other than the injured and called for an end to the rumors.

The Red Cross highlighted the critical need for access and safety for their staff and volunteers to provide life-saving interventions. They stressed the importance of being granted unhindered access to continue their humanitarian efforts.

"It is quite unfair that we are being accused of whisking members of parliament while our staff and volunteers put their lives in danger to provide critical medical care to those in need," the Kenya Red Cross stated.

There was a significant decrease in internet availability in Kenya amid the continuing protests, as reported by NetBlocks, an organization that monitors connectivity.

?? Confirmed: Live network data show a major disruption to internet connectivity in #Kenya; the incident comes amidst a deadly crackdown by police on #RejectFinanceBill2024 protesters a day after authorities claimed there would be no internet shutdown ? pic.twitter.com/Umo0NBLGBw

— NetBlocks (@netblocks) June 25, 2024

Protesters have been dispersed from parliament amid clouds of tear gas and the sound of gunfire, according to Reuters.

Lawmakers were evacuated through tunnels, the agency reported. Earlier, some protesters had entered the parliamentary complex and started damaging property inside.

Amid the huge protest in the country, the contingent of a couple hundred police officers from Kenya touched down at the recently reopened international airport in Haiti capital Port-au-Prince responding to the Caribbean country's urgent request for assistance in addressing a surge in gang violence, nearly two years after the appeal was made.

While their initial assignment remains unspecified, the Kenyan officers will confront violent gangs that currently control 80% of Haiti's capital. These gangs have displaced over 580,000 people across the country, plundering neighborhoods in their pursuit to expand territorial control.

This deployment by Kenya marks the fourth significant foreign military intervention in Haiti. While some Haitians welcome their presence, others approach the intervention cautiously, recalling issues from previous interventions, including allegations of sexual assault and the introduction of cholera during the UN's peacekeeping mission from 2004 to 2017.

For weeks, Kenyans have been protesting against a finance bill proposing tax hikes, citing already high living costs. The government argues it needs increased revenue to fund services without raising the debt burden.

Initially, proposals included a 16% sales tax on bread and a 25% duty on cooking oil. In response to public outcry, the government withdrew some measures. However, an amended bill passed on Tuesday still includes tax increases.

The eco-levy remains, impacting imported products like sanitary pads and babies' nappies, exempting those made locally.

President William Ruto acknowledged the protests and pledged talks to address youth concerns driving the demonstrations, but tensions persist.

Auma Obama, the half-sister of former US President Barack Obama, was teargassed by Kenyan police during a live interview with CNN on Tuesday while protesting against Kenya’s contentious finance bill.

The incident unfolded in Nairobi as Auma Obama, a Kenyan-British activist, spoke to CNN’s Larry Madowo alongside a group of young protesters. "I can’t see anymore, we’re being teargassed," Obama said in footage captured by CNN's ground team.

Read the full report here.

Around 45 injured individuals have been admitted to Nairobi's Kenyatta National Hospital, the country's largest referral hospital. According to a statement on X, they are receiving treatment and surgery. "Seven are female with various types of injuries... We have had no fatalities from the demonstration so far," the hospital reported.

Several hundred demonstrators in Nairobi broke through security barriers and stormed the parliament building during protests against a new tax law, setting fire to several police vehicles and parts of the parliament building itself.

A section of Parliament set on fire pic.twitter.com/MZUiRsLVlX

— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) June 25, 2024

Kenyans are protesting against a new finance bill that introduces unpopular tax proposals, sparking widespread anger across the nation. The controversial bill, seen as imposing additional burdens on ordinary citizens and businesses, has led to a massive outcry from a public already struggling with a high cost of living.

The bill has triggered youth-led protests which, though largely peaceful, have resulted in at least one death and hundreds of injuries and arrests, drawing condemnation from lawyers and human rights groups.

Despite the government's decision to drop some of the contentious proposals, public anger remains high, with many now calling for the entire bill to be scrapped.

Kenyan private broadcaster KTN News said on Tuesday that the east African nation's authorities have threatened to shut it down over its news coverage of nationwide protests against new tax measures.

(Reuters)

Protesters in Kenya have stormed the parliament building compound in Nairobi and set buildings ablaze. According to witnesses speaking to Reuters, at least ten people have been shot dead.

Welcome to our live coverage of the ongoing anti-tax protests in Kenya, where we will keep you updated on the latest developments as demonstrators gather near the parliament in Nairobi.