Deadly Clashes In Kenya Over New Tax Proposal; 22 killed

At least 22 people were killed in the demonstrations that turned violent in Kenya yesterday as protesters speaking out against new tax proposal clashed with the police. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights today said that over 300 have been injured in the violence.

African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat has expressed deep concern over the deadly violence.  In a statement, the AU chief said he is following the outbreak of violence which has resulted in loss of life and damage to property. He appealed all stakeholders to exercise



calm and refrain from further violence. He also urged the national stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to address the issues that led to the protests in the interest of Kenya.

In Kenya, protesters took to the streets to oppose a finance bill that aims to raise taxes on a wide range of items, which they argue will exacerbate the economic hardships faced by citizens. According to the police, the tension escalated when protesters breached police barricades and stormed the parliament building.