Kenyan President William Ruto withdraws controversial finance bill following violent protests

Kenyan President William Ruto has announced that he will not sign a controversial finance bill that sparked deadly protests across the country and resulted in at least six deaths. The nation, previously lauded for its stability, has recently experienced escalating, youth-led protests due to the bill.

In a televised address on Wednesday, Ruto stated, "Having reflected on the continuing conversation around the content of the Finance Bill 2024 and having listened keenly to the people of Kenya who have said loudly that they want nothing to do with this Finance Bill 2024, I concede, and therefore I will not sign the 2024 Finance Bill.” He further added, “The people have spoken.”

“Following the passage of the bill, widespread discontent was expressed across the country regarding its enactment, regrettably leading to loss of life, destruction of property and desecration of constitutional institutions.” Last week, the government had removed some tax increases, including a proposed 16% VAT on bread, as well as taxes on motor vehicles, vegetable oil, and mobile money transfers. However, these concessions were insufficient to quell the protests that erupted amid rising living costs.

On Tuesday, the protests turned deadly as security forces fired tear gas and live ammunition at demonstrators. "I extend my condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones in this very unfortunate manner," Ruto added. He also stated, "As a nation, we need to move forward from here," and added that he would engage in dialogue with Kenya's youth to hear their ideas and suggestions.