Several parts of Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, are covered in smoke following protests against the highly contentious financial bill, which Kenyans say will increase their tax burden.
Huge plumes of smoke rose from areas around Afya and Nation Centers in Nairobi’s central business district as youthful protesters stormed the streets and marched to the parliamentary building on Tuesday afternoon, shortly after the bill’s approval.
The protesters overpowered the police, stormed the parliamentary chambers, vandalized property, and made off with the Speaker’s mace. They also torched part of the parliamentary building and vandalized the cafeteria.
Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the protesters, leading to running battles that brought business in the busy city to a halt. Police also fired tear gas canisters at people who had taken refuge at the Holy Basilica.
In a joint statement, Catholic Bishops condemned the police raid on the Holy Basilica. They explained that they had issued clear guidelines to clerics within their structures not to take sides in this conflict.
A white plane and military choppers were seen circling around the city. Kenya’s President, William Ruto, had yet to address the nation about the unrest.
Speaking about the protest, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka asked President Ruto to resign and cautioned him against involving the military in what he termed an internal matter. “President Ruto must not take this as a personal matter. He must resign,” he said.
