Kenya’s President William Ruto on Wednesday withdrew the controversial finance bill that has sparked widespread protests and violence across the nation.
The decision comes after the bill, which includes significant tax hikes, was passed by parliament but met with fierce opposition from the public and led to deadly clashes.
Finance bill sparks nationwide unrest
The finance bill, aimed at raising an additional $2.7 billion (£2.1 billion) through tax increases, has been at the centre of nationwide protests.
On Tuesday, police opened fire on crowds gathered around parliament, with some protesters breaking into the parliamentary buildings shortly after lawmakers voted in favour of the tax hikes.
The clashes resulted in at least 23 deaths and numerous injuries, reflecting the intensity of public opposition to the bill.
President Ruto’s response and proposed amendments
In response to the escalating unrest, President Ruto has sent the finance bill back to parliament for amendments.
Sources within the President’s office, as reported by Kenya’s Star newspaper, indicate that Ruto proposed several changes that parliament will need to consider.
These proposed amendments were seen as an attempt to address some of the public’s concerns and to ease the tension that has gripped the country.
Continued protests and future outlook
Despite the President’s decision to return the bill to parliament, protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations against the proposed tax hikes.
The ongoing unrest presents a significant challenge for President Ruto, who is facing the most severe crisis since assuming office nearly two years ago.
As the situation develops, the President is expected to address the nation at 1300 GMT to outline his administration’s next steps and to seek a resolution to the crisis.
The outcome of the parliamentary review of the finance bill and the President’s proposed amendments will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of the protests and the stability of the government.
The international community is also watching closely, as the violence and unrest have raised concerns about the broader implications for Kenya’s political and economic stability.
The post Breaking: Kenyan President Ruto withdraws $2.7 billion tax hike after massive protests appeared first on Invezz