One death and over 200 injuries were reported in Kenya during Thursday’s nationwide protests against government proposals to increase taxes by $2.7 billion, according to a coalition of civil society groups.
The protests, organized by the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN), saw thousands of people take to the streets in major cities across the country. The demonstrators were met with tear gas and water cannons as they marched towards government buildings, demanding that the proposed tax hikes be scrapped.
The government’s plan to increase taxes has been met with widespread criticism from citizens and opposition parties, who argue that it will only add to the burden of an already struggling economy. The proposed taxes include a 16% value-added tax (VAT) on fuel, which would lead to an increase in the cost of living for many Kenyans.
The protests were largely peaceful, with citizens exercising their right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. However, the situation turned violent in some areas, with reports of clashes between protesters and police. In Kisumu, one person was killed and several others were injured when police fired live ammunition to disperse the crowds.
The death of a protester is a tragic reminder of the importance of peaceful and non-violent protests. While we understand the frustration and anger of the citizens towards the government’s proposed tax hikes, we urge everyone to express their grievances in a peaceful manner. Violence only leads to more suffering and does not bring about any real change.
We commend the efforts of the KNUT and KNUN for organizing these protests and standing up for the rights of the people. It is heartening to see citizens coming together to demand accountability from their government. We also applaud the police for their efforts to maintain law and order during the protests.
The proposed tax hikes have sparked a national debate, with many questioning the government’s priorities and its ability to manage the country’s finances. The government has defended the tax increases, stating that they are necessary to fund development projects and reduce the country’s budget deficit.
However, we believe that there are alternative solutions that can be explored to address the country’s economic challenges. The government should engage in dialogue with citizens and stakeholders to find a more sustainable and equitable solution. We also urge the government to prioritize the needs of its citizens and ensure that the burden of taxes does not fall disproportionately on the poor and vulnerable.
The protests have also highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the government’s decision-making process. The citizens have a right to know how their tax money is being used and to have a say in how it is allocated. We call on the government to involve citizens in the budget-making process and to be more open and responsive to their concerns.
In conclusion, the protests in Kenya have brought to light the frustrations and challenges faced by the citizens. We stand in solidarity with the people of Kenya and urge the government to listen to their voices and address their concerns. We also call on all citizens to continue to exercise their rights in a peaceful and responsible manner. Together, we can build a better and more prosperous Kenya for all.
