Kenya’s President William Ruto has announced the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024 after deadly protests that led to the torching of parliament on June 25. In a televised address, he acknowledged the strong opposition from Kenyans and stated that he would not sign the bill.
The protests, which were the most significant since Ruto's election in 2022, resulted in the deaths of at least 22 people according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNHRC). Demonstrators stormed parliament, vandalized the interior, and set parts of the building on fire, even stealing the ceremonial mace, which symbolizes legislative authority.
Initially, Ruto ordered a military deployment to counter the unrest, condemning the violence. However, he later reversed his stance in response to the growing public outrage over the deaths of protesters. He has now called for dialogue with the youth, who were pivotal in the protests.
The use of live ammunition by police before the breach of parliament was reported by Wanjeri Nderu, head of the International Society For Human Rights, who described the scene as war-like. Catholic bishops also condemned the security forces' actions and called for both police restraint and peaceful protest.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his sorrow over the deaths and injuries, which included journalists and medical personnel, during the protests.
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