NAIROBI, Kenya- Security has been heightened across Kenya in anticipation of a protest against the controversial Financial Bill 2024.
Police officers from various units, including the General Service Unit and anti-riot squads, have been strategically deployed throughout Nairobi.
The Kenyan government is on high alert, especially after the backlash police received for their excessive use of force against peaceful protesters during Tuesday’s demonstrations.
Despite President William Ruto acknowledging the democratic right of Kenyans to protest, he has remained silent on the incidents of police brutality witnessed early this week.
Human rights organizations, the Law Society of Kenya, and the Media Council of Kenya have all condemned the National Police Service for its heavy-handed approach.
More than 200 protestors including journalists were arrested during the June 18 protest.
Thursday’s protest is expected to draw a large number of young men and women, who have so far demonstrated remarkable organization and peaceful conduct.
Their primary grievance lies with the Financial Bill 2024, which they argue will exacerbate the economic burden on already struggling Kenyans.
Members of Parliament are slated to vote on the bill on Thursday, and the outcome is eagerly awaited by protestors and the general public alike.
Organizers of the protest are urging the government to focus on recovering assets and money lost to corruption and wastage rather than imposing new taxes.
They argue that tackling corruption and reducing wasteful spending would be a more effective and less burdensome solution for the country’s economic woes.
“We are already suffering from a failing economy,” said a protestor.
“The government should focus on recovering stolen assets and stopping corruption instead of making life harder for ordinary Kenyans with new taxes.”
There has been a growing discontent with President Ruto’s administration, which has been accused of overborrowing and mismanaging public resources.
Ruto’s frequent luxurious trips abroad, often using hired jets, have also come under scrutiny.
