Kenya's Tax Protests: A Call for Justice Amid Police Crackdown

An investigation into police conduct during protests against new taxes in Kenya has started. Thousands protested peacefully, but confrontations led to a protester's death and many injuries. Major organizations called for investigations and condemned police violence. The controversial finance bill continues to stir public tension.

An investigation commenced Friday in Kenya into police conduct during protests against a government plan to impose new taxes, the country's police watchdog revealed. Chairperson Anne Makori of Kenya's Independent Policing Oversight Authority praised protesters for their peaceful demonstrations and urged police to exercise restraint, noting the unfortunate killing of a protester and injuries among demonstrators and officers.

On Thursday, thousands of protesters marched in Nairobi and other major cities, demanding that legislators reject a finance bill imposing new taxes on Kenyans. The mother of a young man killed during the protests mentioned that her son was coming from work when police fired at fleeing protesters after tear gas was deployed. Gillian Munyao stated her 29-year-old son, Rex, fell after being hit in his left leg.

"His friend saw him fall and went to check, only to find him bleeding heavily. A passerby was asked for help, but approaching police refused," she told journalists outside City Mortuary, where her son's body lies.

The Kenya Red Cross Society reported 39 injuries, with 8 in critical condition. A joint statement by several organizations, including the Law Society of Kenya and Amnesty International, indicated at least 200 injuries during the protests. The International Commission of Jurists urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to investigate police violence during the protests. "The use of live bullets against protesters is disproportionate and unlawful," ICJ Chairperson Protas Saende said.

While police have yet to comment on the violent confrontations, Inspector General Japhet Koome urged officers to prevent demonstrators from occupying vital government infrastructure. Protesters attempting to access parliament buildings faced water cannons, tear gas, and bullets.

The finance bill proposing new taxes has passed its second reading, with the final vote expected next week. The government amended some highly contested proposals, including a value-added tax on bread and an eco-levy affecting the prices of sanitary products.

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