Anti-Tax Protests in Kenya: No Easy Solutions

In June 2024, Kenya witnessed widespread anti-tax protests, particularly against the passage of the Finance Bill 2024. The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into violence, resulting in the death of 39 protesters and widespread vandalism. The bill aimed to raise KES 302 billion, the largest increase in Kenya’s history, amid high inflation and economic challenges. The government’s insistence on passing the bill despite public outcry fuelled distrust in President William Ruto, who had campaigned on a platform of reducing the cost of living. The protests, which started as opposition to the tax hike, evolved into a broader movement against Ruto’s leadership. Kenya’s economic challenges, including high public debt and sluggish growth, have limited the government’s options for addressing the crisis. While Ruto’s administration has attempted fiscal consolidation, the protests underscore deep-seated discontent with the political and economic status quo.

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