Sections of Kenya’s parliament caught fire on Tuesday as protesters overpowered police to storm the complex where lawmakers had just passed a controversial bill that would impose a raft of new taxes.
A medic outside Parliament said that at least 50 people were injured by gunshots, while police clashed with hundreds of demonstrators.
In chaotic scenes, the demonstrators overpowered the police and chased them in an attempt to storm the Parliament complex. Flames can be seen coming from inside.
Police opened fire after tear gas and water cannons failed to disperse the crowds. A Reuters journalist counted the bodies of at least five protesters outside Parliament.
One of the protesters, Davis Tafari, who was trying to enter Parliament, told Reuters, “We want Parliament to be closed and every member of Parliament must come down and resign.” “We will have a new government.”
Protests and clashes also took place in several other cities and towns across the country.
Parliament approved the draft finance law, and transferred it to the third reading by representatives. The next step is to send the legislation to the president for his signature. He can return it to Parliament if he has any objections.
The demonstrators oppose tax increases in a country already suffering from a cost-of-living crisis, and many are also calling for President William Ruto to step down.