CurrentReport Blog In a significant turn of events, President William Ruto announced on Thursday the withdrawal of the controversial 2024 Finance Act bill, which had proposed substantial tax hikes. This decision follows a week of intense protests that resulted in 22 fatalities and hundreds of injuries.
Speaking to the nation, President Ruto stated, “I concede and therefore I will not sign the 2024 finance bill and it shall subsequently be withdrawn. The people have spoken.” This move marks a critical response to the mounting public dissent and economic distress voiced by the Kenyan populace.
The protests, initially peaceful, erupted into chaos on Tuesday as lawmakers approved the Finance Act. Demonstrators, angered by the proposed tax increases amidst rising economic hardships, clashed with police forces who resorted to using live ammunition. The unrest culminated in the ransacking of the partially burned parliament building.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, a state-funded body, reported a tragic toll of 22 deaths and approximately 300 injuries as a result of the violent confrontations.
While President Ruto acknowledged the people’s demand for the withdrawal of the bill, he also issued a stark warning regarding the fiscal consequences. “The withdrawal of the bill will result in a significant shortfall in funding for development programs,” he cautioned, signaling potential challenges ahead for Kenya’s economic landscape.
This dramatic decision highlights the growing tensions in Kenya as the government grapples with balancing fiscal policy and public welfare amid escalating economic pressures.
