Business Leaders Protest New Tax Policy on 1,000 in Nairobi

Thousands Take to Nairobi Streets in Protest Over Proposed Tax Hikes
NAIROBI, Kenya — Thousands of Kenyans, predominantly young people, flooded the streets of Nairobi and other towns on Thursday to protest proposed tax increases in President William Ruto’s annual finance bill. The demonstrations, which brought Nairobi’s central business district to a standstill, turned chaotic as riot police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds advancing toward the parliament buildings, where lawmakers were debating the contentious legislation. Protesters carried placards denouncing the government and chanted slogans urging legislators to reject the proposed taxes.
The unrest comes after an earlier round of demonstrations on Tuesday, when citizens also clashed with police over the proposed levies, which include a 2.75% contribution to the national health insurance plan and higher taxes on fuel and cooking oil. Although some measures, such as a 16% value-added tax on bread and a new annual motor vehicle tax, were withdrawn following discussions between the president and ruling party members, protesters said these changes did not go far enough. Many voiced concerns that the additional taxes would strain salaried workers, entrepreneurs, and consumers, increasing the cost of living and stifling business activity.
Among those on the streets was 19-year-old Ashley Mwai, participating in political protests for the first time on behalf of her parents, and businessman Walter Mwangi, who said the cumulative tax burden is crippling small enterprises. Civil society groups vowed to continue demonstrations, including planned sit-ins outside parliament, despite dozens of arrests during previous protests. President Ruto, attending an event in Garissa, acknowledged citizens’ right to protest but emphasized that government institutions must continue carrying out their responsibilities.
Looking ahead, the finance bill is scheduled for its third and final reading in parliament next week. Analysts say continued public pressure could influence lawmakers’ decisions, while civil society groups insist they will maintain visibility in key urban centers until the legislation reflects public concerns. The protests underscore growing frustration among Kenyans over taxation policies and the broader economic challenges facing the nation.