Dozens Arrested as Police and Protesters Clash Over Nairobi Finance Bill
Police in Nairobi's Central Business District have arrested dozens of protesters opposing the Finance Bill 2024. The protests, dubbed 'Occupy Parliament', saw demonstrators dressed in black T-shirts and civilian clothes demanding the rejection of the bill, which they argue will impose severe financial burdens on citizens already facing economic hardships. The arrests took place at various points, including the National Archives, Kencom, and Jeevanjee grounds, with police using tear gas to disperse the crowds. Protesters were handcuffed and transported to different police stations.
Nairobi Police Chief Adamson Bungei declared the protests illegal, stating that no formal application for a gathering or picketing permit had been submitted, and that an inadequate document from the previous year did not meet the requirements. Despite claims from the protest organizers that they had met all legal requirements, Bungei emphasized that the police had increased patrols in the CBD to prevent business disruptions. Among those arrested was activist and journalist Hanifa Adan. The Finance Bill 2024, introduced by President William Ruto, includes various new taxes, some of which have been subsequently removed following public outcry.
