On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, anti-riot police officers were deployed around Parliament in Nairobi in anticipation of the planned ‘Occupy Parliament’ protests. Additionally, roads leading to Parliament were barricaded to prevent protestors from accessing the restricted area.
This heightened security followed a call to action by a group of Kenyans, led by human rights activists, who vowed to protest against the proposed tax increases outlined in the Finance Bill 2024. The demonstrators aim to influence lawmakers to reject the Finance Bill, which is set for consideration in the House on Tuesday afternoon.
Kenyans on social media platforms have actively supported the ‘Occupy Parliament’ protests, sharing posters and guidelines for the demonstrations scheduled to take place outside Parliament buildings. On Monday, leaflets were distributed in Nairobi’s central business district, urging citizens to “stand up against excessive taxation by ‘Zakayo’,” a nickname for President William Ruto, referencing his tax policies.
Activist Boniface Mwangi informed journalists that the protest would start at 11 a.m., ahead of Parliament’s session scheduled for 2 p.m. According to posters shared on social media, protesters are instructed to wear black clothing and adhere to a code of conduct emphasizing calm behavior. They are also urged to avoid violence, abusive language, and any damage to property.
Meanwhile, Sylvanus Osoro, the National Assembly Majority Whip, has indicated that the Finance Committee is reviewing amendments to the Finance Bill. These amendments include reconsidering increased taxes on bread and vegetable oils, as well as introducing a new motor vehicle circulation tax and levies on internet and money transfer services.
Despite strong opposition from citizens, the Finance Bill 2024 aims to generate an additional Ksh.300 billion in taxes.
