Nairobi, Kenya – An investigation has been initiated in Kenya concerning police conduct during protests against a government plan to implement new taxes, the country’s police watchdog announced on Friday.
Anne Makori, chairperson of Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), praised the peaceful nature of the protesters and urged police restraint. She acknowledged the tragic killing of a protester and the injuries sustained by both demonstrators and police officers.
Protest Details and Casualties
On Thursday, thousands of protesters marched through Nairobi and other major cities and towns across Kenya. They demanded that legislators reject a finance bill that proposes new taxes. The peaceful protests were marred by violence, leading to casualties.
The mother of Rex Munyao, a 29-year-old man killed during the protests, recounted the events leading to his death. Gillian Munyao stated her son was returning from work when tear gas was fired in his direction, and police opened fire on fleeing protesters. Rex was struck in the leg and, despite pleas for assistance, police allegedly refused to help him, leading to his death from heavy bleeding.
The Kenya Red Cross Society reported 39 injuries, with 8 individuals in critical condition. However, a joint statement by several organizations, including the Law Society of Kenya and Amnesty International, indicated that at least 200 people were injured during the protests.
Calls for Accountability
The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) called on the IPOA to investigate instances of police violence during the demonstrations. ICJ Chairperson Protas Saende emphasized that using live bullets against protesters is “disproportionate and unlawful.”
Despite the documented injuries and the death of Rex Munyao, the police have not commented on the casualties. Inspector General Japhet Koome released a statement affirming that officers would not tolerate attempts by demonstrators to occupy critical government infrastructure.
Protesters attempting to reach the parliament buildings, where the finance bill debate was ongoing, were met with water cannons, tear gas, and either rubber or live bullets.
Finance Bill Controversy
The contentious finance bill proposes several new taxes, including medical insurance levies, taxes on vegetable oil, and an additional fuel levy. The bill passed its second reading, with a final vote expected next week. The government has made some amendments to the bill, removing a value-added tax on bread and an eco-levy on goods that would have increased the prices of sanitary towels and diapers.
Broader Implications
The protests reflect widespread dissatisfaction with the proposed tax measures, which many Kenyans see as an additional burden in an already challenging economic environment. The ongoing investigation and subsequent findings by the IPOA will be critical in addressing public concerns about police conduct and ensuring accountability.
As Kenya navigates this period of political and social unrest, the government’s response to both the protests and the concerns raised about police actions will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.
